Army sergeant surprises daughter at school

UNDATED (WHDH) -- After four tours of duty and months of being away from home Army Sgt. Melody Webb, just back from Afghanistan counted down the seconds until she would be reunited with her little girl.

What Amaia and her third grade class didn't know is their principal planned a surprise homecoming; a moment which brought family, friends, and of course, mother and daughter, to tears.

Amaia was a bit shocked and speechless, but happy to have mom home.

Sgt. Webb, who has served for the past eight years, said leaving her daughter is the hardest part.

"The military gets so much praise, but we forget to praise families,” said Webb.

Webb's husband is also in the army and is still deployed. This is a family who depends on Skype, e-mails, and loved ones at home.

"It’s our family at home who keeps us together. They're our backbone. Thank God for them,” said Webb.

Amaia's grandmother, who has been caring for her since mom has been away came up with the idea.