Air forces from Australia, Canada, Japan, the Philippines, the Republic of Korea and the United States, among other organizations, teamed up for Operation Christmas Drop, launched from Andersen Air Force Base in Guam in December 2025.
The U.S. Department of War’s longest-running humanitarian airlift mission began in 1952 after a U.S. Air Force B-29 crew flying near Guam spotted islanders waving and dropped supplies as an act of goodwill.
“Operation Christmas Drop delivers more than just supplies,” said Aren Palik, vice president of the Federated States of Micronesia. “It delivers hope, connection and the reassurance that even across a vast ocean, we remain part of one family. It is an accomplishment that speaks to the steadfast commitment of the United States and its Pacific partners to care for our people and our communities.”
Conducted annually from the U.S. territory of Guam, the operation delivers about 37,000 kilograms of supplies and gifts across the Marshall Islands, Micronesia and Palau for more than 42,000 residents spread across nearly 60 remote islands and 4 million square kilometers of airspace. Supplies are dropped by parachute from about 60 meters.
“I don’t think we can truly grasp that impact until we see the families wave and jump up and down in excitement as we fly by,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Richard McElhaney, 374th Airlift Wing commander. “While this is an amazing humanitarian mission, it’s also an invaluable training event for participating air crews. This training and the work we do here matters and translates to our readiness.”
The multinational operation, led by the 374th Airlift Wing from Yokota Air Base, Japan, improves interoperability and communication for humanitarian response. During the weeklong mission, Allies and Partners delivered 270 bundles of critical supplies while conducting low-level flight, precision-airdrop and logistical coordination training, skills that strengthen the ability to execute rapid airlift missions across the Indo-Pacific.
“The people of the Federated States of Micronesia extend our deepest gratitude,” Palik said at the opening ceremony. “Beyond the food, tools, fishing gear, school supplies and gifts, you deliver something far more valuable: the spirit of compassion that defines this Christmas season.”
About the Author
