James Bowie Elementary School student gets heartwarming homecoming surprise

BAYTOWN, Texas – A Goose Creek Consolidated Independent School’s elementary student had an unexpected surprise Friday when he was the winner of the Most Improved Reader Award at James Bowie Elementary School, but the best part was who presented the award.

Elijah Jones was presented the award in the school’s library by his godfather, Staff Sgt. Jarayle Williams, who was deployed to Afghanistan for two years. Elijah face showed his excitement and shock at seeing Williams, who they say is like a father figure in his life.

The other students were just as excited as Elijah to have a “real soldier” in their library.

Elijah’s mother, Enjoli Jones, said she decided to surprise her son when she found out that the 12-year veteran Williams was coming home to visit.