When their loved ones are deployed overseas to serve our country, military families make enormous sacrifices. Missed activities, embracing, and laughing at dinner tables serve as persistent reminders of loved ones who are not present. The holiday season can be especially challenging for youngsters who are the most separated from their parents. Video talks with her father, Eric Morski, are a highlight for Iliana, 10, especially since he has been posted in Nepal as an army captain for the past six months.

Despite the time difference, Iliana enjoys catching up with her father at dinner, breakfast, or even before she goes to bed. As Christmas neared, she planned to spend the whole holiday season video-chatting with her father. Morski and his wife Meredith had planned an amazing surprise for her, which she had no idea about.

Despite the time difference, Iliana enjoys catching up with her father at dinner, breakfast, or even before she goes to bed. As Christmas neared, she planned to spend the whole holiday season video-chatting with her father. Morski and his wife Meredith had planned an amazing surprise for her, which she had no idea about.

Morski arrived home early and broke into the family’s Fort Bragg, North Carolina house. Iliana had no idea her father was downstairs in the living room when she wanted to FaceTime him before night. Iliana’s delighted reaction as she realizes her father is back home where he belongs is captured on tape in this beautiful moment. She dashes around the house in search of him, and the family’s dog, Oliver, is overjoyed to see Morski return home.

This touching video captures the joy and happiness of a military family’s reunion, a reminder of the sacrifices that these families make every day. After watching this sweet surprise, don’t forget to share the joy with your loved ones. It’s moments like these that remind us of the true meaning of the holiday season.

Watch the video below, and please share it with your friends on Facebook.