A single Army dad moved heaven and earth to make it home for his daughter’s kindergarten graduation, and the surprise reunion will melt your heart.
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US Army Captain Gregory Rice spent his daughter Alena’s entire kindergarten year away on deployment. While his little girl learned big things and made new friends, he tried his best to be present via video calls, video messages, and letters. But when it came time for Alena to stand for her official graduation ceremony, he knew he needed to be there in person.
The proud father made it back from Eastern Europe just ahead of the ceremony, and he spoke to ABC News after he and his soldiers landed in Fort Stewart, Georgia. He was trying to rush Warner Robins, Georgia, nearly three hours away, where his little girl earned her diploma.
Army Dad’s Surprise Made The Kindergarten Graduate “Happy”
Capt. Rice made it to the school after the ceremony began. But he was able to walk in for Alena’s big moment. When he did, the presenter paused to let Alena and her dad share a much-needed hug.
As Alena walked the stage, her dad stood behind the crowd, teary-eyed, and watched as she walked the stage and stood for a round of applause. Then as she headed back to her seat, she spotted him.
The presenter announced that “Alena’s father is here,” as the surprised little girl covered her face in shock. She ran off the stage and the two embraced as the parents and students stood and cheered. The dad and daughter held each other close for a moment that could make anyone cry.
Following the heartfelt reunion, Capt. Rice asked Alena to tell ABC how she was feeling. With a smile on her face, the 5-year-old simply said, “Happy.”
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