PITUFFIK SPACE BASE, Greenland -- On December 11, 2024, Santa arrived in Qaanaaq, a village located approximately 70 miles north of Pituffik Space Base, Greenland, for the 65th Annual Operation JULEMAND [pronounced yoo-leh-mond].
Started as a one-time event in 1959, Operation JULEMAND is a yearly celebration where Guardians and Airmen from Pituffik SB travel out to local Greenlandic communities to foster good-will — bringing with them holiday greetings and gifts. “Julemand” is the Danish word that means “Christmas Man,” and is emblematic of the figure Americans would recognize as Santa Claus.
As he came riding into town in a bright red firetruck, flashing lights lit up the night sky. Children ran down the streets paving the way to city hall where they would finally get to see Santa and his helpers.
After many smiles, waves and hugs, everyone in attendance joined hands and circled the tree — singing traditional songs in celebration of the holiday. This year, 180 children received their very own hand wrapped gift as they were called up by name, one by one. The joy and happiness ringing through the hall will remain a core memory for all who were there.
During the celebration, a gentleman came up to one of Santa’s helpers and explained that he remembered when he received his first gift, delivered by Operation JULEMAND. He stood there this day watching his grandson receive a gift just as he had many years ago.
We would like to thank everyone who contributed worldwide to continue this special tradition. Thank you to Pituffik SB leadership and the Operation JULEMAND team for organizing the efforts toward mission success this holiday season!
Thank you to Air Greenland for the flight to Qaanaaq and for transporting and staging the gifts months earlier. This dedication ensured that the children from Savissivik, Siorapaluk and Qeqertat experienced the magic of Christmas.
Finally, a very special thank you to the villages for being lovely hosts with an amazing reception and tour. Santa loved the drawings, narwhal and candle gifts. They will be cherished forever! We are grateful for the opportunity to exchange stories and further expand upon our deeply rooted, heartfelt connection.
We wish you all a Merry Christmas! Juullimi Pilluarit! Glædelig Jul og godt nytår! Santa and his helpers are counting down the days until their return next year.