The holiday season often brings a unique set of challenges for military families.
While their loved ones serve far away, families back home long for their safe return, especially during festive times.
This was the case for Kim Harris, a math teacher at Prairie Heights High School, whose son, Army Spc. Ethan Harris, was stationed in Afghanistan.
Her greatest wish was to have him home for the holidays.
In a remarkable twist of fate, the school organized a Christmas breakfast featuring a special lottery.
The winner would get to ask Santa for their heart’s desire.
As the event unfolded, captured in a video by KPC News, Superintendent Alan Middleton was seen drawing the lucky name.
Kim, harboring the hope of being chosen, didn’t know that the draw was fixed.
When her name was announced, she was in for a big surprise, unaware that Christmas season was about to get a lot brighter.
Santa Claus made an unexpected appearance, adding a festive touch to the breakfast.
Kim walked to the front of the room and took a seat on Santa’s lap.
Invited to share her Christmas wish with Santa, Kim, embodying the spirit of the season, asked for “Peace on earth, goodwill to men.”
Santa, curious, inquired about the best gift she had received that year.
Kim’s answer was heartfelt: knowing her son was safe and back in the U.S. after his Afghanistan deployment.
Santa, probing further, asked about Ethan’s whereabouts.
Kim confidently replied that he was stationed at Fort Campbell in Tennessee.
Yet, little did she know, the real surprise was just moments away!
That’s when Santa asked “Are you sure?” and pulled down his white beard.
The room was soon filled with emotion as Santa revealed his true identity.
Kim’s reaction was instantaneous and heartfelt as she embraced Santa, who was none other than her son, Ethan, in disguise.
Ethan’s return was orchestrated to be a memorable surprise.
He had arrived in town a few days earlier but stayed hidden at his sister’s house.
Kim’s husband, John Harris, expressed his gratitude to those who helped make this surprise possible, even if it meant telling a few white lies.
But with how beautiful the reunion turned out – it was completely worth it!
Ethan shared with KPC News:
“We just haven’t surprised her in so long and she just needed it. She was worried about me – and I was home, safe, and she just needed it.”
The overjoyed mom said:
“Even having him at Fort Campbell, I knew he was home – but having him with us as a family is just awesome. It’s my baby.”
Kim and Ethan’s reunion is a touching reminder of the true spirit of the holiday season.
It’s a story of love, sacrifice, and the joy of family coming together.
Watch the full video to experience this emotional and joyful moment for yourself!
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