Some Central Texas kids got a big surprise this week as soldiers continue to return to the area from deployment. Fathers who have been away from home serving our country got the chance to surprise their kids at a couple of school events.

KWTX reports that Sgt. Jonnathan Perez Olivieri, who had been away from home for 270 days was reunited with his two sons. Olivieri said, "I missed a lot of things about them, but we’re together now." Their reunion happened at Trimmier Elementary in Killeen.

Photo by Brandon Hamilton via KWTX (Soldiers Return Home)
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Another Fort Hood family was reunited during a school dance at Haynes Elementary. Chief Warrant Officer Marcus Barnes was able to surprise his seven-year-old daughter on Thursday night. Barnes described the evening as "complete". He told KWTX, “Complete. Makes everything complete. She’s my only one. She’s all I have." Barnes had spent the last nine months deployed in Europe.

KWTX's Brandon Hamilton asked Barnes's daughter what she wanted to say to her Dad now that he is back home. She said, “Thank you for coming with me."

We want to thank all of our returning service men and women for all they do and welcome them back home to enjoy time with their families. Do you have a soldier returning home to Central Texas? We would love to see your welcome home photos or even just give shoutouts on the radio. Post your photos or 'Welcome Home' messages in the comments below!

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