Central Elementary Welcomes Hero Home

Nov. 3rd, 2014

A Cabot hero has been reunited with his family.  Four-year-old Bennett Allen has been anxiously waiting for his father's return.  After nearly 7 months overseas, Lt Col David Allen, who serves with the Air Force Air National Guard, finally arrived Sunday night.

By Monday afternoon, Lt Col Allen was visiting his son's class at Central Elementary.  All the Pre-K students dressed in red, white and blue and made patriotic posters welcoming Bennett's daddy home. The students even gave him a special book of drawings.

For Bennett, who turns 5 next week, this was an early birthday present.  He says he can't wait for his dad to take him hunting. 

The past 24 hours have been a whirlwind for Bennett and his younger sister Audrey. 

The actual homecoming took place Sunday night at Little Rock National Airport. 

Their mom, Stacy Allen, who is principal at Eastside Elementary surprised Bennett and his sister with a trip to the airport. There, they were overjoyed to see their father for the first time in 197 days.

Lt Col Allen says, “It was awesome to see them.”

This was his first deployment away from his kids. Now this family is enjoying as much time together as possible.

*And a big thank you to Mrs. Hardcastle and Mrs. Vicki for making the class visit so special!

Central Elementary Welcomes Hero Home