Military Dad Surprises Son For 16th Birthday

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ARLINGTON (CBSDFW.COM) - One North Texas teen experienced a birthday surprise he didn't see coming.

His father, Army Major J.D Tillman, followed through on a promise he made ten months ago.

"I'm definitely nervous. In a good way, I think," said Maj. Tillman, before showing up at a rec center where his son Jaylen was.

The 16-year-old was elated as he ran to his father.

"Dad! Oh my God! Dad! Oh my God," Jaylen said as they hugged.

His father was equally pleased, more so even that his son recognized him after losing 55 pounds overseas.

"I've missed him a whole bunch. I've actually thought about this day quite a bit over the last several months," said Maj. Tillman.

So has Jaylen, who thought his father's military duties in Afghanistan would keep him from celebrating his sweet 16.

"I'm just happy. I'm glad you're okay Dad," he said.

(©2015 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

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