When this tightly knit group of cousins decided to get lunch on Presidents' Day, they didn't know someone very special to them was going to show up uninvited.
The kids, along with Mom and Grandma, hit the Texas Roadhouse in Waterbury, Connecticut, for a bite to eat. Unbeknownst to the children, their table of seven was about to grow to a full table of eight.
As they were sitting, still deciding on their meals, a tall man approached their table, but he wasn't their waiter asking if they were ready to order.
In the video below, posted on February 20, 2017, the cousins' jaws drop as they lay eyes on the man in uniform. In complete shock, their eyes light up and they lift themselves from their seats, ready to greet their cousin, U.S. Army Specialist Connor Estavillo.
One by one, they all welcome Connor home with the warmest of hugs and tears flowing down their cheeks.
Comforting one of his crying relatives, Connor explains, "I can hold you guys like this for as long as I want to."
One of Connor's little cousins, Jason Piva-Fraticelli, says, "It's happy because I'm just happy he survived and he's still alive."
With the help of his aunt, Connor planned the entire homecoming surprise. He couldn't wait to see his entire family again, especially his grandma.
"I grew up with all of them my whole life. Our family is very close," Connor says, smiling. "I saw my grandmother everyday for the past 24 years, so finally getting to see her is great. … I've been waiting for that hug since I've been gone. Finally got it, so I'm the happiest person right now."
The army specialist was planning to surprise the kids at school, but what better way to celebrate Presidents' Day than with an emotional military homecoming?
To see the family's entire reunion, check out the video below. Please SHARE this story if you're happy to see a military man back home again.
