Holloman Raptor to escort Santa through area Published Dec. 24, 2008 By Mr. Arlan Ponder 49th Fighter Wing Public Affairs HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- Santa will have a special escort this year as he makes his way through the area. An F-22A Raptor from Holloman will serve as Santa's wingman to ensure the successful delivery of all his gifts to children living in the area, according to the 49th Fighter Wing operations group commander. "We are Santa's favorite fighter wing. Our aircraft tails are marked 'HO' for Holloman and you can hear Santa calling for our escort from the moment he and the reindeer take off ... HO, HO, HO," said Col. Michael Stapleton. "With the tremendous amount of support we've received over the past year from the residents of the area, we wanted to ensure this special visitor completes his mission on time and on target. As everyone knows it is always a good idea to have a wingman when you're out there performing a mission." The "special" mission will serve as a thank you to the residents of the Tularosa Basin who have supported Team Holloman during 2008. In addition, the mission will serve as a reminder of what 2009 will bring for Holloman and the residents of the Tularosa Basin.