Nothing warms the heart like a soldier coming home from deployment early. It’s even better when it’s a complete and total surprise.
That’s exactly what Notre Dame basketball player Matt Farrell got when his deployed brother 1st Lt. Bo Farrell surprised him in person at a recent game.
Bo had been deployed to Afghanistan back in May, and Matt was not expecting to see his brother until February of 2017. Neither were his parents. But Matt and Bo’s Grandmother, as well as Notre Dame coach Mike Brey, teamed up to hatch an early reunion plan.
After Notre Dame’s win against Colgate, a video message appeared on the big screen. It was announced that there was a holiday message for point guard Matt from his brother deployed to Afghanistan.
As Matt watches, he begins to get teary eyed.
Surreal ✝? pic.twitter.com/Gwum4teqKF
— Matt Farrell (@MattyFarr3) December 20, 2016
Bo starts off by wishing Notre Dame a very Merry Christmas and congratulating the team on the 77-62 victory against Colgate.
Then says, “Mom and Dad I love you and miss you very much.”
Adding,”Matty I’ve been watching you tonight from here. For us home is wherever we are together and I look forward to being home with you soon. Really, really, really soon.”
“You have always followed your hopes and your dreams. I just want you to know how proud I am of you. I love you and I miss you very much.”
The moment the video finishes, Bo walks out onto the court and an epic bro-hug ensues.
Matt told reporters afterward “He got me.”
“We don’t ask for much for Christmas, so this is the best present I’ve ever gotten.”
(H/T Today.com)