The teary surprise reunion happened at lunch – six months after Sgt. Altasia Johnson was called overseas.

“I wanted to make it more special and surprise her,” Johnson said.

Aleya, 13, was staying with her grandparents while her mom was in Afghanistan.

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People carrying a giant pride flag participate in the annual Pride Parade in Atlanta on Sunday, Oct. 13, 2024. (Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez