Blackhawks Give Military Family Special Christmas Surprise
CHICAGO (CBS) - Tears, hugs, and lots of happiness. There were enough warm feelings to melt the ice at Tuesday's Blackhawks practice.
They can play rough when they have to. But today, they played Santa, and brought one west suburban family exactly what they wanted for Christmas. CBS 2's Roseanne Tellez reports.
No opponent ever wants a surprise from Blackhawks players. But today, while the team practiced at Johnny's IceHouse, two star players had a big surprise in store, off the ice.
This military family from Aurora thought they were just getting a tour and a chance to meet players. They weren't sure what to make of our cameras -- until Blackhawks center Jonathan Toews offered a clue.
"On behalf of the Blackhawks, we have a special presentation," Toews said.
And within seconds, Lance Corporal George Handley was in mom's arms, while the rest of his family waited their turn.
"I think I speak on behalf of all of us in this room, not only the Blackhawks organization but all of us, we appreciate everything you do, so thank you," said Blackhawks winger Patrick Kane.
The Blackhawks, in partnership with the USO, brought Handley home for Christmas, from Okinawa, Japan where he's been stationed for the last seven months.
"I loved it," Handley said of the surprise. "Because I didn't plan on coming home until 2012. That's a big difference from now, so I'm happy."
"He's always been one of my closest siblings," said his sobbing sister, Virginia. "So I'm happy."
Tears of joy. And for some hockey heroes, it was a humbling moment to welcome one of their heroes home.
"It makes you think about everything you have and how easy your life is because of these people," said Toews. "You definitely become a little more appreciative of every little thing you have."
For Handley's mom, it will be a Christmas to remember.
"When he came out that door, it was like, wow, he's here, yes, it's really him!" said Brenda Handley.
Corporal Handley just turned 20 two days ago, so it's a combination birthday/Christmas present for him.
Funny thing is, no one in the family was really a hockey fan going into this. But you can bet they love the Hawks now!
