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Soldier Surprises Kids At School In Cottage Grove

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- An early morning surprise brought one family to tears. Chief Warrant Officer Gabriel Timp has been serving in Kuwait, and Monday morning, he had an emotional reunion with his children.

Planning and preparation helped Timp pull off the perfect surprise. His three children, ages 7, 9 and 11, attend Pine Hill Elementary School in Cottage Grove.

They thought their father would be returning home at the end of May, not Monday morning.

Tomas, Gabriel and Eliana were brought to school in a fire truck prior to the surprise. When they saw Timp standing out in front of the school, the tears flowed, followed by happiness and lots of hugs for a family that hasn't seen each other in the past year.

Timp always knew he wanted to have a special reunion with his children.

Their mother actually won the opportunity for their kids to ride to school on a fire truck at a local carnival and wanted it to coincide with the big day, making it even more memorable.

Timp said he plans to spend time camping and hanging out with his kids this summer. He said he is retiring, so this will be just the beginning of lots of quality time with his children.

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