A Connecticut Army Reservist reunited with his 8-year-old daughter after nearly a year serving abroad.
Staff Sgt. Mike Howes was serving in Djibouti with his battalion – the 411th out of Danbury.
Mike Howes’ daughter, Maddie, didn’t know her school, Flanders Elementary, was in on the whole surprise.
Maddie’s mom, Iza Howes, helped orchestrate the entire homecoming celebration. “You can’t put it into words,” Iza exclaimed, “ I mean she just has so much love for him.”
The tearful reunion was most special for Maddie, who didn’t think she was going to see her father for at least another month, “awesome,” she told us.
Staff Sgt. Howes added, “ I’m just happy I had the chance to surprise them and I made it home safely.”
Earlier in the day, Howes also surprised his stepdaughter at Southington High.
Students at Flanders Elementary spent the last year supporting Howes’ battalion by sending letters and care packages.