Soldier Brother Hides in Cap & Gown at Sister's Graduation, Tears Flow When She Spots Him on Stage
Who doesn’t love a big surprise, especially when that surprise happens during a major milestone in life? Birthdays, holidays, anniversaries, and graduations — all ideal times to up the ante and celebrate in momentous style.
Every year, countless graduates walk toward a stage, clad in a cap and gown, ready to celebrate the moment that diploma is placed in their hands. It’s truly something when you can look back and realize just how much happened during those four long years of high school — years that suddenly seem fleeting.
One graduating senior from Houston, Texas learned the true strength of sibling bonds. When an unexpected guest showed up for her big day, Jasmine Barroga couldn’t help but get more than a little emotional.
On June 2, 2018, Jasmine and her family headed to Delmar Field House for her Northside High School graduation ceremony. Thankfully we live in a time when video recording is as simple as a few finger swipes.
Jasmine’s brother, JD, filmed as his sister waited in line with the rest of her class. Dressed in a purple cap and gown, the senior was surrounded by others dressed exactly like she was.
But, something — or someone — didn’t quite belong. When Jasmine realized there was one graduate too many, her joy over her accomplishment escalated all the more.
Watch as it dawns on her. Can you spot the person who doesn’t quite fit?
It turns out Jasmine’s older brother, Army Specialist DJ Barroga, had been in Hawaii for almost 2 years. This video shows the first time the siblings were reunited after such a long time apart.
Thanks to the Barroga family, with the support and help of Northside High School, DJ’s return was made possible. He entered the graduation as a student incognito, but he came out the big-brother hero of the day.
DJ and Jasmine posed for a photo op following his short speech onstage. “I’m very proud of Jasmine…” DJ said to the large number of attendees. “…congratulations, class of 2018.”
Their reunion is one they’ll surely never forget. Here’s to Jasmine and DJ — may you enjoy your celebration, even long after it ends.
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