Admiral Frank B. Kelso, II, CHIEF of Naval Operations, along with Command MASTER CHIEF Burr H. Walker meet with Santa Claus on the aft mess deck of the aircraft carrier USS INDEPENDENCE (CV-62) which is currently deployed in the gulf of Oman in support of Operation Southern Watch

Aircraft carriers are warships that act as airbases for carrier-based aircraft. In the United States Navy, these consist of ships commissioned with hull classification symbols CV (aircraft carrier), CVA (attack aircraft carrier), CVB (large aircraft carrier), CVL (light aircraft carrier), CVN (aircraft carrier (nuclear propulsion) and CVAN (attack aircraft carrier (nuclear propulsion). The first aircraft carrier commissioned into the United States Navy was USS Langley (CV-1) on 20 March 1922.

Santa Claus, also known as Saint Nicholas or Father Christmas, is a legendary figure who is said to bring gifts to children on Christmas Eve. The modern version of Santa Claus is based on a number of historical and cultural influences, including the Dutch legend of Sinterklaas, British and American Christmas traditions, and the Christian bishop Saint Nicholas. The figure of Santa Claus as we know him today - a jolly, plump man with a white beard, red suit, and black boots - was popularized in the 19th century through the work of various writers and artists, including Clement Clarke Moore and Thomas Nast. Today, Santa Claus is a beloved symbol of the holiday season, and continues to be a source of joy and excitement for children and adults alike.