Surprise homecoming for Appleton family

Summary

In a heartwarming segment, Sergeant Troy Neiland surprises his two young sons, Drake and Harvey, with a homecoming after being deployed in Okinawa, Japan, for seven months. The emotional reunion highlights the joys and challenges of military families, as Troy expresses his excitement and nervousness about reconnecting with his children, who have grown in his absence. This story, featured in the holiday spirit of giving, showcases the power of family bonds and the magic of holiday wishes, emphasizing the importance of cherishing moments together during the festive season.

Takeaways

• 😀 Troy Neiland, a Marine Reservist, made a surprise trip back to Appleton to reunite with his sons.
• 🎄 The reunion was framed as a holiday wish fulfillment for his two young boys, Drake and Harvey.
• 💔 Neiland had not seen his children since April, highlighting the emotional toll of military deployment.
• 😄 Troy expressed excitement and nervousness about the reunion, showcasing the anticipation of seeing his kids.
• 👶 His younger son, Harvey, had grown significantly during his absence, now speaking in full sentences.
• 🎉 The surprise homecoming was intended to give the children a joyful holiday experience.
• ❤️ Family connections are emphasized as crucial during the holiday season, especially after long separations.
• 📅 Troy will spend the entire holiday season with his family, making up for lost time.
• 📺 The story was reported by Local Five News, underlining the community interest in military families.
• ✨ The segment reflects the broader theme of love and family unity during the holidays.

Q & A

What was the primary purpose of Troy Neiland's trip back to Appleton?

Troy Neiland made a covert trip back to Appleton to surprise his two young sons with a holiday reunion after being deployed for seven months.

How long had Troy been deployed before returning home?

Troy had been deployed in Okinawa, Japan, for seven months before returning home.

What emotions did Troy express before the surprise reunion?

Troy expressed excitement and nervousness, stating he had 'butterflies' and was eager to see how his sons would react.

What was the reaction of Troy's sons when they saw him?

Troy's sons were overjoyed to see him after not having seen him since April, with emotional reactions highlighted during the surprise.

How did Troy describe the time he spent away from his family?

Troy remarked that being away made him realize how much he missed his family, particularly noting how much his younger son had grown.

What ages are Troy's sons?

Troy's sons, Drake and Harvey, are five and three years old, respectively.

What significant changes had occurred in Harvey during Troy's deployment?

When Troy left, Harvey was barely babbling, but by the time he returned, he could string full sentences and talk.

What sentiment did Troy share regarding the holidays after his deployment?

Troy expressed eagerness to relax and spend the holidays together with his family after a long time apart.

How did the community contribute to the holiday surprise?

The City of Appleton and the Trout Museum helped facilitate the early holiday surprise for Troy and his family.

What broader themes does this story highlight during the holiday season?

The story emphasizes themes of family, love, and the importance of togetherness, especially during the holiday season.