Banning Air Force Dad Surprises 3rd Grade Son After 1 Year Overseas

BANNING, CA — A Banning school was the location of a heartfelt reunion this week between a military father and third-grade son, the school district announced.

"A third-grade classroom at Central Elementary School turned into a scene of joyful tears and heartfelt emotion today as U.S. Air Force Civil Engineer Michael LuGrain surprised his only son, Thomas LuGrain, after nearly a year of being deployed overseas.

"The reunion, which took place just before the school’s lunch break, was a complete surprise to
Thomas, his classmates, and even much of the school staff. Michael, who serves as a water and
fuel systems maintenance specialist, has been deployed four times. Although he and Thomas
have done their best to stay in touch one to two times a week during his absence, the time apart
was deeply felt.

LuGrain talked about the emotion of the day afterward.

“Thomas is my world,” he shared. “We talk as much as we can, but it’s not the same as being there. I missed him more than words can say.”

LuGrain entered the classroom quietly and stood next to Thomas’s desk.

"It took a moment before Thomas realized who was beside him—then, in an instant, he leapt into his father's arms, speechless and overwhelmed with emotion. The two shared a powerful embrace, and Thomas quickly began showing his dad what he had been working on in class."

The surprise didn’t stop there. Thomas’s mother and grandmother were also part of the moment,

stepping into the classroom shortly after Michael, adding to the wave of joy. Students were
equally moved—some cried, and many told Thomas how happy they were that his dad was
finally home.

Principal Marcia Cole-Fijabi spoke on the meeting, and being able to share it with the school and district.

“This is what community and connection are all about,”Cole-Fijabi said. “To
witness such a powerful and personal moment reminded all of us of the strength and sacrifice our
military families endure. We’re honored that this reunion happened in our school.”

The reunion occurred in Mrs. Ruano’s third-grade class, whose students were deeply impacted
by the experience.

“Our classroom was instantly filled with love and emotion,” Ruano said. “The students were in complete awe. Many cried tears of joy. It reminded us how powerful it is to see love in action.”

LuGrain shared that his son's favorite thing to do with him is play video games, and the two
already planned many matches.