In a generous display of holiday spirit, the White Settlement Police Department took part in the Holidays and Heroes Christmas program at the Naval Air Station. The event, recounted in a social media post by the department, highlighted a morning when military families received support from the local police leadership team through sponsored Christmas assistance. This contribution runs in tandem with the department's annual Santa Cops program, which also aims to bring festive joy to families within the White Settlement I.S.D.
Among the experiences offered during the festive event was the unique opportunity to "fly" an F-35 using Lockheed Martin's state-of-the-art simulator. Children and parents alike were also treated to a meet-and-greet with Star Wars characters, a leisurely lunch, and the thrilling sight of Santa parachuting from a plane. According to the White Settlement Police Department, this year's festivities were well attended and left many with smiles and memories to cherish.
The event was also graced by the presence of local law enforcement leaders such as Chief Cook of the White Settlement Police Department, who is also a member of the Fort Worth Airpower Council. Chief Reaves of Westworth Village joined forces with Captain Beau Hufstetler, the base's Commanding Officer, to welcome those gathered for the celebration. Their involvement underscores a community-wide effort to recognize and support the sacrifices of military families during the holiday season.
Special acknowledgment was given to Kerre Randel Ortegel, who has been instrumental in organizing the Holidays and Heroes event for 11 years. This year marked the fourth consecutive year that the White Settlement Police Department participated in the event, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to the well-being of service members and their families. The department's efforts align with a broader, communal tradition of honoring those who serve with actions that speak louder than words.
