Airman First Class Derrek Maggart told his little sister he would have to miss her graduation.

Serving overseas in South Korea, he explained to her that he’d be two days too late to see her cross the stage for Miami East High School.

So when he came out from behind a curtain during the ceremony and took the podium to lead the pledge of allegiance she, of course, broke down in tears of joy.

She could barely wait to go up and jump into his arms as the crowd cheered.

It took several weeks of careful planning and only a few people at the school knew what was coming, according to Principal Todd Gentis.

Gentis said Miranda Maggart thanked him twice before the ceremony was even over for helping arrange the surprise.

“It definitely made it memorable,” Gentis said.

“It was all her brother.”

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In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason.Getz@ajc.com