Chicago soldier surprises kids at school after 10-month deployment

BLUE ISLAND, Ill. - A Chicago man is back on U.S. soil after a 10-month deployment to Jordan, and his children's school helped make the reunion unforgettable.

What we know:

Eduardo Medina-Ramos, a member of the Army National Guard, returned home on Friday after serving with Bravo Company 178. While overseas for his first deployment, he supported peacekeeping and logistics operations.

While he was away, Medina-Ramos only saw his preschool-aged children through FaceTime. 

To celebrate his homecoming, St. Walter-St. Benedict School in Blue Island coordinated a thoughtful reunion to mark the long-awaited end to this chapter.

"Overwhelmed, with everything going on—overwhelmed. But I’m happy I’m back with them, I missed them a lot," said Staff Sgt. Eduardo Medina-Ramos, Bravo Company 178, Army National Guard.

After returning home, Medina-Ramos’ first stop was to see two tiny smiles that he missed dearly—his 4-year-old daughter, Elisa, and 3-year-old son, Ezekiel. 

At school dismissal time on Friday, they had no idea their dad was going to walk through the door.

What they're saying:

Outside of the school, Principal Kim Leonard rolled out the red carpet, gathering parents and students who applauded as Medina-Ramos arrived.

"I did not expect none of this to happen at all. I was just trying to come home and see my kids, be with them, give them the time they need," Medina-Ramos said.

"It means the world, not only for me but for my kids," said Evelyn Mijares. "I love the community that we’ve built here with the school. I’m so appreciative and so grateful to everyone here."

Much to their surprise—Elisa and Ezekiel mom’s, Evelyn entered the classroom first, followed by Medina-Ramos. When both little ones realized what was going on, they jumped up and melted into their father’s arms.

"Puts everything in perspective, how your kids are really important to you, they really are," Medina-Ramos said.

There wasn’t a dry eye in the classroom as the family embraced.

"His family has given up a lot for him these last 10 months, they’ve missed a lot," said Leonard. "We are just so proud we could give back to them."

Medina-Ramos’ homecoming made each sacrifice sweeter and was a memorable end to a chapter well-served.

"To be able to be part of this moment with these little guys, and just see their faces and entire personalities change, it completely touched my heart," said Lisa Agner, assistant principal of St. Walter-St. Benedict School.

What's next:

As he adjusts to life back home, Medina-Ramos plans to catch up on some much-needed rest—and enjoy all of the favorite foods he missed.