Staff Sergeant Zach Grundy, a dedicated member of the Indiana National Guard, lives in the friendly town of West Lafayette, Indiana. He has three wonderful kids: Addaline, Aurora, and Avery. Zach loves his family very much, but he had to be away from them for a long time— a whole year. During this time, he was serving overseas, doing important work for the country. It was a tough year for everyone because they missed each other so much.

While Zach was away, his wife, Bethany, took care of everything at home. She made sure Addaline, Aurora, and Avery did their homework, played, and grew up happy, even though they really missed their dad. They kept counting the days until they could see him again.

Then, one special day, Zach finally returned home from his service. But here’s the exciting part: Zach and Bethany came up with a playful plan. They decided not to tell Addaline, Aurora, and Avery that Dad was back. Why? Because they wanted to make his return an unforgettable surprise.

The plan was to reveal the big surprise during a family vacation. Imagine this: the kids thinking they’re just going on a regular trip, only to find the best surprise waiting for them— their dad, whom they hadn’t hugged in a year, suddenly there with them! Zach and Bethany were thrilled about this idea. They could hardly wait to see the looks on their kids’ faces when they saw their dad again. It was going to be a moment full of hugs, smiles, and probably a few happy tears, making their family vacation one they’d never forget.