Chief Warrant Officer, Marine Reservist and Miami Firefighter Ivan Chavez surprised his family Wednesday at a Fire Recruit Ceremony at Miami Beach City Hall.
Chavez's son and daughter thought they were participating in a recruitment ceremony for Miami Beach firefighters when they were happily reunited with their father. Chavez had been deployed in Afghanistan for the past 11 months.
For more than 25 years, Chavez has been with the Miami Fire Department. His children are third generation firefighters, making the family one that is truly dedicated to serving the community and our country.
Chavez enjoyed a tearful reunion with family and friends. During the ceremony, he noted that he was excited to be with his children and to spend time with family and friends after almost a year apart.
See the emotional reunion here:
Photo credit: John Moore