Military Dad Dresses Up Like Tiger Mascot To Surprise Son After Return From Deployment - Inspirational Videos

One father who had been deployed with the military, serving in the Middle East, found a unique way to surprise his young son following his return to the United States.

The men and women who serve in the nation’s armed forces deserve all the respect and praise they receive. They willingly put themselves on the frontlines, often in dangerous situations and places around the world. But their often-extended periods of deployment can be tough on their families.

A video posted on YouTube shows the pure, unbridled joy and happiness of one young man, 7-year-old Eli, after he spotted his military father. 

Sgt. Perry Chronister, a member of the U.S. National Guard, had been away from his family for about a year. The video mentions that he had been serving in the Middle East. 

After returning to the United States, Perry wanted to surprise Eli with his return. But he needed some help from his son’s elementary school in order to do it. 

The mascot of Eli’s Ohio elementary school is a tiger. But little did the second grader know that the man in the suit was his father.

The clip shows the tiger walking into the classroom and then soon after kneeling in front of Eli. When it is time for the big reveal, Perry removes his mask and Eli leaps on his dad, hugging him and knocking him to the ground.

Eli’s reaction is more than enough to say that he is thrilled to have his father back with him. That’s a moment that father and son are sure to cherish for the rest of their lives. 

For those students who may have been left bewildered by what they have just witnessed, a teacher tries to explain the situation to the rest of the children. 

Ephesians 6:4 “And, you fathers, do not make your children angry: but give them training in the teaching and fear of the Lord.”