He surprised his daughter by walking into the school's media center, where her class was having reading time.

Gazeley, who has served two tours overseas, told WSOC that reuniting with his daughter, Autumn, is an early Christmas gift.

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"It just feels unreal to be back now and see my little girl,” he said.

Family members said Gazeley will be seeing a lot more of Autumn after finishing up his responsibilities in Kuwait.

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Julian Conley listens during opening statements in his trial at Fulton County Superior Court in Atlanta on Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025. The 25-year-old is accused of fatally shooting 8-year-old Secoriea Turner in July 2020. (Abbey Cutrer/AJC)

Credit: abbey.cutrer@ajc.com