A Mother’s Love in Uniform: How Dely Labunog’s Surprise Homecoming Brought Joy to Her Family
In the heart of Garden Grove, California, an emotional reunion unfolded in early 2022. U.S. Army Reservist Dely Labunog surprised her two children with a homecoming. She had been deployed for over a year in Kuwait and Iraq. This carefully planned moment brought tears of joy. It also showcased the strength of family bonds midst the challenges of military life.
After serving overseas for more than a year, Labunog’s early return was a closely held secret. She arrived home two weeks ahead of schedule. She managed this through meticulous coordination with her husband, Fabian, and the principals of her children’s schools. Together, they crafted a heartwarming surprise that neither Julian nor Elizah Labunog would ever forget.
The first surprise happened at Bell Intermediate School. Julian, a middle school student, was immersed in his math class. To make the moment truly unforgettable, Labunog donned the school’s Roadrunner mascot costume. Julian stood at the front of the classroom teaching the mascot a math problem. He had no idea his mother was hidden beneath the costume. With her cue ready, Labunog removed the mascot’s head, revealing herself to her astonished son. Amid the cheers of his classmates, Julian’s masked face lit up, and he exclaimed, “Mom?” before embracing her tightly.
Over at Enders Elementary, Labunog’s daughter, Elizah, was told that a special military visitor would be arriving. Excitement buzzed through her first-grade classroom as the students eagerly awaited their guest. When Labunog stepped into the room, Elizah’s surprise was instantaneous. Without hesitation, she leapt from the rug where she had been sitting and ran straight into her mother’s open arms. The joyful reunion was captured on video, highlighting the uncontainable love and excitement shared between mother and daughter.
Labunog has proudly served in the military for 12 years. Being separated from her family was one of the toughest challenges she’s faced. A graduate of Rancho Alamitos High School, she reflected on the emotional toll of being away. “It was hard being away from them for more than a year. I would expect our happy times when we talk on the phone,” she shared. “Now I’m home and in my happy place.”
This reunion is a testament to the resilience of military families and the profound sacrifices they make. The Labunogs’ story reminds us of the importance of support systems. It highlights love and the joy of homecomings. These homecomings bridge the distance between loved ones. Moments like these are filled with surprise and affection. They resonate deeply. They inspire gratitude for the service members and families who endure so much to protect and serve.
Source:
- https://youtu.be/kox7KqsaHCQ?si=6hNQV12Go1GlxUH6
- https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/watch-military-mom-surprises-children-at-school-with-early-return/2985125/
- https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/army-reservist-mother-surprises-children-garden-grove-schools/
- https://chatgpt.com/
- https://readloud.net/
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