Military Father Surprises Daughter At School

KELLER (CBSDFW.COM) - Following a 7-month deployment, a military father managed to pull off the ultimate surprise.

Master Sergeant Jeremy Freeman was still in full uniform, when he set foot inside Timber Creek High School in Keller. Two of his children thought they were there for an assembly. As soon as she saw her father's face, Lauryn Freeman raced to down the basketball bleachers to hug him. Her younger brother Stanley was not far behind.

"I didn't know he would be home so soon. I'm just so shocked that he's back," Lauryn said through tears.

The high school junior explained she was not sure her dad would be back in time for Thanksgiving. Mom and dad had been keeping the surprise for a couple of weeks.

"I just thought it was a pep rally or something," said Stanley, still in shock.

"I was in on it," said his mother April, with a smile.

After an emotional reunion, it was time for round two. Master Sergeant Freeman headed to Trinity Springs Middle School, where daughter Makenzie was playing basketball.

The 8th grader was focused on the game on the court, when she locked eyes with her father. She too sprinted into his arms. They exchanged several hugs as she cried happy tears.

"It's been over 7 months so it's a long time coming," said Master Sergeant Freeman. The dad says he missed basketball games and celebrations during his most recent tour in Afghanistan. He says he regrets not being able to help during stressful times at home. His oldest daughter had surgery a month after he deployed.

"That really makes it tough and stressful knowing how much it stresses mom out," he said.

The military dad says he is home for good. He plans to retire from the Air Force next year.

"I'm ready to get home-cooked meals and just be with family," he said.