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Airman surprises son before football game

WORTHINGTON, Ohio (WCMH) – An Ohio seventh-grader got the surprise of his life just before his football game Wednesday evening.

The Kilbourne Cardinals and McCord Wolves played each other at McCord Middle School on Hard Road.

Chase Beckert is a linebacker for the cardinals and had no clue his dad was back in town after a deployment to Qatar in the Middle East.

“He was the man of the house while Mike was gone,” said Aimee Beckert, Chase’s mother. “He has two sisters and myself. Even all of our animals are female.”

Staff Sergeant Michael Beckert, with the Air National Guard, left Columbus in June.

“I missed all three of the children’s birthdays and our anniversary,” said SSgt. Beckert while hiding behind a tree. “About a week ago, I talked to my wife and she contacted the school and we kind of had an idea that we wanted to surprise him.”

The two worked with the athletic director for Worthington Schools to make sure the surprise reunion went off without a hitch. A plan was hatched to have SSgt. Beckert meet Chase during the coin toss.

“I’m hoping he doesn’t get too shy in front of a whole bunch of people,” said Aimee.

Just before the game started, Chase joined his teammates for the coin toss and pregame handshake. Moments later, his dad walked onto the field.

Chase was thrilled to see his dad. He hoped his team would secure a win for him.

“I want the Cards to win for my dad and military families all over the world,” said Chase through tears.

The Cardinals beat the Wolves 38-8.