Mo. Marine returns home a day early and surprises daughter

(NBC) - It was a Father's Day to remember for one Missouri family.

Marine Sergeant Eric DeSplinter hadn't seen his six-year-old daughter, Chyler, since last September surprised her by showing up a day early to see her dance recital.

"I'm pretty nervous. I got butterflies in my stomach," DeSplinter said. "It's definitely the longest I've been away from her."

Chyler's mom, Kelly, said that after her dad's first deployment, she was young enough that she didn't really have a grasp on it. This time, she understood where he was.

"There is no more incredible feeling than having him home again," Kelly said. "My family is finally back together."