SEDRO WOOLLEY, Wash. - It was an emotional reunion for 6-year-old John Hawes, when his father, who had been serving in Iraq for the past seven months, surprised the boy while he was in class.

For the last seven months, Petty Officer Bill Hawes has been in Iraq. It was an eternity for his family, especially for his son, who had no idea his dad was coming home and was surprising him in class Thursday.

All year, the Sedro Woolley 6-year-old had written letters to his dad.

KING

An emotionally overcome John Hawes, 6, gives his father, Ensign Bill Hawes, a serious hug.

And his kindergarten class at Central Elementary joined in, sending the sailor care packages.

With his father's return, a tearful John got to introduce his father to all his pen pals.

The Hawes happily shared their joy with the whole class who all took part in the welcome home party - the sweetest homecoming for a sailor who had been gone too long, and for a little boy who dreamed of this day with his dad.