The Marine Corps Base Quantico Fire Department helped spread the holiday cheer by giving Santa a ride to see children, accompanying the band and even stepping in as Santa when he got stuck at the North Pole.

“Why wouldn’t he ride with us?” asked Robert Helbock, firefighter captain, Marine Corps Base Quantico Fire Station. “It’s the best way for him to arrive anywhere.”

The fire station helps out annually with giving Santa a lift and spreading holiday cheer.

Each year the firefighters look forward to the Exceptional Family Member Program Holiday event the most.

“It has always been our favorite event of the holiday,” said Helbock.

This year, a firefighter wore Santa’s famous red suit because Santa was held up at the North Pole taking care of one of a reindeer who had gotten into Mrs. Clause’s cookies.

“They have been coming for years to assist Santa with a lift or making sure to pass on the children’s wish list,” said Monique O’Neil, program manager, EFMP. “It helps the children to see firefighters in a friendly safe light. Now, when the children see a fire truck, they know it’s a friendly aspect of the community.”

The firefighters didn’t stop at just giving Santa a lift; they also alerted Quarters 1 by lights and sirens to the band performing.

“It’s always a great experience working with them,” said O’Neil.

Correspondent: tabitha.bartley@usmc.mil