Best Day Ever: Army Dad Drops in on Career Day from Afghanistan

HYATTSVILLE, Md. — An assembly at a Hyattsville elementary school became the best day ever for fifth-grader Dellion Sitladin Jr. when his father — stationed in Afghanistan for almost a year — surprised him at school. 

Only Langley Park-McCormick Elementary School Principal Amy Stout was in on the surprise for D.J., as the boy is nicknamed. 

And the appearance by Sgt. Dellion Sitladin Sr., in Army fatigues, came as an early Father’s Day present to his son. The happy reunion was caught on video by the Prince George’s Public Schools media staff and shared on YouTube.

Principal Amy Stout told the fifth-graders gathered that there was a surprise guest who wanted to be a part of the school’s career day, reports The Washington Post.

“Are you ready for our special guest?” Stout asked the students.

The kids yelled “Yes,” and the elder Sitladin walked into the cafeteria, hugging D.J. to his chest as his classmates cheered.

After the event, “I was really surprised and excited,” D.J. told the videographer before again being embraced by his father.

Sgt. Sitladin thanked the students for cards and letters they’ve sent to troops serving overseas.

“It was funny what you guys said, it really keeps us up. We spend time reading, thinking about home,” Sitladin said. “We all appreciate what you guys did. We get to laugh. … Keep doing the good work, make sure you get all As.”