Soldier Comes Home to Reno in Time for the Holidays

A Reno family had their Christmas wish granted early, as they welcomed home their son and grandson from the Army Thursday. 

The entire family greeted Brett Handlin with hugs and tears after seeing him for the first time in several months. 

The 19-year-old private is home on leave, following six months training in Kentucky with the United States Army.

The surprise welcome-home was put together by Handlin's own mother, Angel and grandmother, Cindy, who were  both pretty ecstatic to have him back.

"This is a huge deal because they deploy very very shortly and we don't get to see these guys for a year at a time," said Angel Handlin. "It's exciting that he's here and you worry as a parent. And wonder what's happening but it's the sacrifice they choose to make and so we're as supportive as we possibly can be."

The Handlin family says they feel blessed to have him home for the Christmas, knowing so many others in the military are still overseas this holiday season. The private says it's rare for a trip like this to happen. 

"We don't get to come home very often anymore. Especially with the 101st," said Brett Handlin. "We deploy so often, we don't get to come home as much as we'd like."

To show their support, Patriot Riders and the Truckee Meadows' Blue Star Moms held flags and banners to let Handlin know his service is appreciated.

Bill Drummond, with the Patriot Riders said, "What they do and their service to our country is very important, it's important to all of us."

His service is what makes his mother most proud of him. 

"He's not thinking about himself. He's thinking about other people and I think that's what makes me proudest as a mom. He's putting others first," said Angel Handlin. 

Putting others first like his younger siblings.

"I joined so my brothers wouldn't have to. I want them to be able to have a future that they choose and be able to go to college if they want and not have to worry about student loans," said Brett Handlin. 

Handlin will leave just after the new year and expects to spend the next week he has visiting as much family members as he can, while he also takes a much needed rest.