The holiday season is a time for giving, and the Amentum NISSC II (North American Aerospace Defense Command and U.S. Northern Command Integrated Support Services Contract) team is no stranger to spreading cheer and joy. This year, team members are again volunteering for the NORAD Tracks Santa (NTS) program—a beloved tradition that has brought the magic of Christmas to families worldwide for nearly 70 years.
For those unfamiliar, NORAD Tracks Santa is a program run by the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) that allows children and families to follow Santa Claus as he journeys around the globe on Christmas Eve. What began as a heartwarming accident in 1955—when a misprinted phone number in a Sears advertisement directed children to NORAD’s predecessor—has since blossomed into a globally celebrated event combining tradition and cutting-edge technology.
The Role of the Amentum NISSC II Team
The Amentum NISSC II team provides critical support to NORAD and USNORTHCOM throughout the year. However, during the holiday season, their dedication extends beyond their professional duties to embrace the spirit of volunteering.
This year, our team members are volunteering to help staff the Santa Tracker hotline, responding to thousands of calls from children eager to know Santa’s whereabouts. Volunteers answered questions ranging from “Where is Santa right now?” to “What kind of cookies does Santa like?” They also provided updates on Santa’s position, powered by NORAD’s sophisticated satellite tracking and radar systems.
The Impact
The NORAD Tracks Santa program extends beyond fun to foster community connections. Over 1,500 volunteers engage with millions each year through calls, emails, and an interactive website. Amentum’s participation highlights its dedication to goodwill and relationship-building inside and outside the workplace. In 2023, the Santa tracker handled 84,910 calls in 20 hours.
For the NISSC II team, it’s more than holiday cheer; it’s about reflecting on the service’s value and the joy of bringing smiles to children.
Looking Ahead
As the Amentum NISSC II team prepares for another successful year of volunteering for the NORAD Tracks Santa program, they look forward to continuing their tradition of service. Their contributions remind us of all the magic that comes from giving our time and talents to bring joy to others.
When Santa’s sleigh flies across the night sky this holiday season, we can all take a moment to appreciate the hard work and dedication of those behind the scenes who help make the magic happen.
Happy Holidays from the Amentum NISSC II team! For more information about the NORAD Tracks Santa program, visit NORAD Tracks Santa.
