This Military Mom Dressed Up As The School Mascot And Gave Her Son A Heartwarming Surprise

Sep 25, 2018 by apost team

Military service is not for the faint of heart. That's why we clap when soldiers get off the plane. That's why we thank them for the hard work they do. And that's why it's so meaningful when they make it back from overseas tours.

After all, the stress of being away from family is just another layer on top of the hardship of active combat. Coming home is a relief for everyone involved. Paul Heling wanted to capture that emotion. So he filmed an incredible reunion. A young boy named Jake was missing his mom. She'd been away on a military tour for a grueling nine months. 

apost.com

Finally, she finished her tour of duty and made it home. She decided to surprise her son in an incredibly touching way. The McKinley Elementary School in Appleton, Wisconsin, has a mascot that looks kind of like a cheetah.

Jake's mom had the clever idea to get ahold of the mascot costume. Jake and his friends were hanging out in gym one day when the friendly mascot showed up. All the kids were super excited! The mascot gave everyone high-fives and accepted pretend sandwiches from the kids.

Jake was the most excited of all when his mom took off the costume and gave him a huge hug. He couldn't believe his eyes! Jake burst into tears, and even the other kids got emotional. The video is especially touching because Jake is usually a shy kid. He doesn't express himself so easily. This just proves the power of family. It can affect all of us and bring out unexpected reactions. Check out the video of the emotional surprise:

The joy is all the more profound for military families. Their reunions are much more special. It overcomes the fear of potential loss and the gratitude of welcoming home your loved ones. Do you know anyone who has served in the military? Pass this on to your friends and loved ones.