A map depicts Adm. Saint Nicholas’ flight plan over Southern Maryland during a pre-deployment reconnaissance mission planned for Dec. 9, 2025 from 10:00 to 1 p.m. ET ahead of annual operations on Christmas Eve. Claus will fly with elves and other holiday helpers from Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (HX) 21 out of Naval Air Station Patuxent River to spread cheer and finalize his naughty list over several locations across St. Mary’s and Calvert Counties in Maryland. The squadron added several regional schools to this year's flight based on community feedback. (U.S. Navy graphic)