'My life is back:' Soldier returns, surprises family in emotional homecoming
MILWAUKEE -- A local soldier returned home after serving halfway around the world and surprised his family in a big way. Loved ones of Wilson Rodriguez had no idea he'd appear right before their eyes.
Wilson Rodriguez Jr. spent the last nine months serving as a soldier in Kuwait.
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Wilson Rodriguez
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Wilson Rodriguez
"We were working at a military hospital taking care of patients that needed to come in on base," said Rodriguez.
His family knew he'd soon be heading home, but didn't know when.
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Wilson Rodriguez
"I'm really looking forward to coming home now that everything is ending," said Rodriguez.
On Saturday, May 25, Rodriguez's family watched a video message from the 25-year-old old at FUEL Fitness in Oak Creek. Alongside them was a group of dozens who had just finished a 22-mile walk for veterans. They power through the elements raising awareness for veterans that take their lives each day.
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The recording was thought to be the ending of the event. But then they were surprised with a familiar face. Rodriguez hugged his father first.
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Wilson Rodriguez
"I would say only one other time in my life I saw my dad cry. He was definitely crying," Rodriguez said.
Then came his mother.
"I jumped right on him because it was like my life is back. I have him. It's so nice to see him safe to have in the U.S.A.," said Celis Rodriguez, Wilson's mother.
Andru Krol from FUEL Fitness helped plan the surprise.
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"It's just something we wanted to do and show our appreciation for somebody who served," said Krol.
A mission accomplished.
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"You don't get this moment too many times. It's kind of special," Rodriguez said. "It's very unique so I said why not just go for it?"
So what's next for the serviceman? Rest, relax and spend time with family -- it's something Rodriguez missed while serving overseas.