Third Grader Gets Belated Birthday Surprise at School
Post date: Oct 11, 2012 12:25:35 PM
Wells Elementary School student Heath McHugh got a very big surprise at the end of gym class on Wednesday, October 10th. His father, US Army Chief Warrant Officer (CW3) Donald McHugh of Wells made a surprise visit to see his son at school.
“That’s my Dad,” said a wide-eyed and astonished Heath McHugh as he looked towards the stage of the gymnasium to see his father standing there. Young McHugh, who turned eight years old on October 9th, was resting on the gym floor with fellow students when the older McHugh was spotted.
As relatives, students, school staff and television news crews watched, McHugh made his way to the floor to pick up his son for a big hug. Both have not seen each other for a year.
McHugh is a Black Hawk helicopter pilot and is stationed in Hawaii.
“It was awesome,” said McHugh about being able to travel to Wells to see his family and son in school. McHugh indicated that he only has until Friday for a home visit before making the long trek to Afghanistan. McHugh said that he has had three tours of duty in Afghanistan and three tours in Iraq. McHugh graduated from Wells High School in 1997.
“Good” said Heath McHugh when asked about seeing his dad. Both father and son were interviewed by the three major television stations (Channels 6, 8 and 13) from Portland.
Visiting WES with McHugh was Heath’s mother Shawna McHugh, Great Grandfather Roland Falconer and Grandmother Heather Groves.
10/10/12
Photo Caption: US Army CW3 Donald McHugh of Wells and his son Heath
