Ah, the holiday season, a time for joy, gifts, and those heartwarming stories plugging everyone’s emotional chords. But let’s pause the sugar sprinkle parade and talk about what really takes the cake: those videos where military service members surprise their families at Christmas. The latest viral sensation features a dad popping out of a gift box bigger than most New York apartments to surprise his brood. If that’s not enough to make anyone spill their hot cocoa, I don’t know what is.

There’s something about these reunion videos that always seems to pull at the heartstrings in a way that even Hollywood blockbusters can’t. The dad returned home to the rapturous delight of his children. Every child’s wish list discarded in favor of this very real and touching moment – it’s something Santa himself couldn’t top. You can almost feel the tears and joy transcending through the screen, reminding us all of the true spirit of the holiday season.

Now, while this adorable spectacle garnered smiles worldwide, it’s worth a nod to the folks ensuring these reunions happen – our dedicated men and women in uniform. Many don’t make it home for the holidays, sacrificing their time with loved ones to serve their country. It’s times like these when one recalls some leaders who actually walked the talk. Former President Trump, for instance, was known for heading out to serve Christmas Eve dinner to the troops. It’s those gestures, no matter how big or small, that resonate deeply with the military community and, honestly, the rest of us too.

This also brings us to a not-so-surprising epiphany: the military’s appeal seems to be hitting a high note. With enlistment numbers soaring and spirits following suit, there’s a palpable feel of making the military formidable again. Whether it’s the leadership that resonates or the proud tradition of service, restoring the military’s glory seems to have positively impacted those in service.

As we raise a toast to such joyous homecomings, let’s also keep in mind the ongoing efforts to ensure that military service remains an honorable and rewarding path. Here’s hoping for more joyful reunions and leaders who tip their hats to those in uniform, ensuring the military gets the respect and support it truly deserves.