Military dad surprises son on birthday at Bruins game

BOSTON — An emotional military homecoming surprise at the Boston Bruins game Thursday night was captured on video and is melting hearts everywhere.

Images of Air Force Reserve Staff Sgt. Erik St. Germain surprising his 7-year-old son Anthony on his birthday are spreading on social media.

“It was just the most amazing night that the Bruins could have gave Anthony and myself and our little family,” St. Germain said.

It was a long-awaited homecoming following a six-month deployment to Kuwait.

“It was awesome to finally see him back together seeing as he’s asked time after time when he’s coming home,” St. Germain's fiancee, Sara, said.

They reunited just minutes before the Bruins took on the Rangers at the Garden.

“They gave Anthony a custom jersey,” he said. “It says Anthony, number 7, for his age.”

And while Anthony got to fist-bump his favorite players, he was more excited to see his real hero.

“To have my own family,” Anthony said. “You’re happy to have your own family," Sara said.

The outcome of the game wasn’t exactly what fans were hoping for, but the loss didn’t spoil this experience of a lifetime.

“Seeing Anthony on the jumbotron, seeing him smile all night, it’ just a seventh birthday that I’ll never be able to top for the next 80 years.”

Cox Media Group