WEST WINFIELD - For those with loved ones in the services, the holidays can sometimes be a rough time of year. But for one West Edmeston family, they received the greatest Christmas gift of all in the return of a husband and a father.

On September 18, Timothy Hecker hit the ground in Baghdad. But now, he'll be home for Christmas, and a family has been reunited.

The students at Mt. Markham Central School recently did a pancake breakfast fundraiser to send items to troops through the "Adopt-A-Soldier" program. Raising more than $2,000, today they were to receive certificates for their hard work. But for the children of the Hecker family itself, they received so much more.

After being snuck into their very house by his wife, Tina, Hecker surprised his children with an appearance at school. To the disbelief of all his children - Brianne, Timothy II, and Nick - Sergeant First Class Timothy Hecker walked through the doors of Mt. Markham, and into the arms of his offspring.

For Timothy Hecker II, who himself will begin basic training on June 30, inspired by his father, he can't think of a better Christmas gift.

"The best one I've ever had," he said.

The Hecker's have no elaborate plans, just to spend time with one another. For Brianne Hecker, there's just one thing she's looking forward to.

"Just being a family," she said. " Having fun."

Sergeant Hecker will have 15 days to spend with his family, and while he has no idea when he will be back for good, he plans to cherish every moment he has back home.

"That's one of the greatest things about the Christmas season is being able to come home and spend time with your family," Hecker said. "The ones you love."

The Heckers will get their happy holiday after all, albeit slightly bittersweet, as they will have to see their dad off once again, as he leaves Christmas morning.