Tech Center

Soldier Overseas Gives Dad A Special Father's Day

(WCCO) For dads with sons and daughters in the military, Father's Day can be tough. Saturday, a soldier and her father were able to overcome the thousands of miles between them, at least for a little while.

You could say the military is in Kirk Fjetland's blood. A Navy veteran, his father and brother were also in the military and now, so are two of his kids. Son Jeremy is in the Air Force and stationed in North Carolina. Daughter Bryce is a soldier in Afghanistan.

"She is a real sweetheart. She really is. To know her is to love her. She's got a heart of gold. She will do anything for anybody," said Fjetland when asked about his daughter.

Bryce's desire to help others is one reason she decided to serve her country. She has been in Afghanistan almost a year, and her family has not seen her since Christmas. Thanks to technology, Saturday she gave her dad an early Father's Day gift.

Inside the confines of the WCCO studio, Fjetland is able to carry on a satellite conversation with Bryce, who is on the other side of the world. He saw her face for the first time in six months. This type of technology was unheard of when he was in the Navy 20 years ago.

"When I was in the military it was letters. That was it. And there was times where you go three, four months without getting any kind of mail at all," said Fjetland.

"Yes, I'm very excited to come home. It's time. I'm ready," said Bryce through a satellite feed.

For 20 minutes Fjetland's family is able to chat with Bryce. It is a rare treat, and for Fjetland it definitely beats getting a Father's Day card in the mail.

"It's good to see you talking. It's great to see you again honey. I love you," said Fjetland before their conversation ended.

"I just want to say Happy Father's Day and once I get home we will celebrate Father's Day when you come to visit me and I will see you guys soon," Bryce responded with her own message.

Bryce is scheduled to come home in late June. Her father will pick her up in Virginia. She was recently recognized as a soldier for her efforts in Afghanistan, which Fjetland says is a Father's Day gift in itself.

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