Author: Militarykind, USA TODAY

Meeting Santa is super special for (most of) these kids.

The best surprises are the ones that come six months early. Welcome home dad.

We followed a box full of thank you letters over 5,000 miles to see how soldiers reacted to the words of gratitude from kids back home.

When they celebrate the holidays with fellow soldiers, there’s only one rule: leave your rank at the door.

There is no better gift for a military family during the holidays than having their service member back home.

“My mom never did anything small scale.” Santina’s kids know their mom is looking down on them as they continue her cookie tradition for the troops.

“I’m really here!” The music coming from their living room will be answered prayers for these brothers.

That college football player you’re watching on Saturday is an elite special operations soldier for the U.S. Army.

Unlike most brides, this day wasn’t all about her. She shared her day with a Marine who finally came home.

Unlike most brides, this day wasn’t all about her. She shared her day with a Marine who finally came home.