Maj. Jennifer King, a member of the New York Air National

NORAD (the North American Aerospace Defense Command) is a joint military organization between the United States and Canada that is responsible for monitoring and defending North American airspace. Every year, NORAD tracks the movements of Santa Claus on Christmas Eve as he delivers presents to children around the world. This tradition began in 1955 when a Colorado Springs-based Sears Roebuck & Co. store advertised a phone number for children to call and talk to Santa. However, the phone number was misprinted, and instead of reaching Santa, children ended up reaching the CONAD (the predecessor of NORAD) Commander-in-Chief's operations "hotline." The officers on duty, in the spirit of the holiday season, played along and gave the children updates on Santa's location. The tradition has continued every year since, and today, NORAD uses its advanced technology and radar systems to track Santa's journey around the world.

Santa Claus, also known as Saint Nicholas or Father Christmas, is a legendary figure who is said to bring gifts to children on Christmas Eve. The modern version of Santa Claus is based on a number of historical and cultural influences, including the Dutch legend of Sinterklaas, British and American Christmas traditions, and the Christian bishop Saint Nicholas. The figure of Santa Claus as we know him today - a jolly, plump man with a white beard, red suit, and black boots - was popularized in the 19th century through the work of various writers and artists, including Clement Clarke Moore and Thomas Nast. Today, Santa Claus is a beloved symbol of the holiday season, and continues to be a source of joy and excitement for children and adults alike.