By Sylvia Powers
Correspondent
Texas Metro News
Most holiday memories fade over time, but for the Bach family, this year’s holiday experience was one they will cherish forever.
Thanks to the compassionate efforts of the American Red Cross, Sr. Airman Aaron Bach, stationed in Japan, was able to reunite with his family in a way they never imagined—surprising them in front of 45,000 football fans at the Armed Forces Bowl at Amon G. Carter Stadium.
Preparing for the game was somewhat challenging because Aaron’s mother speaks little English and doesn’t like being around large crowds.
“Leading up to the event, it was awesome. Going out onto the field was even more special. But watching that video message from my brother really warmed my heart,” said Aaron’s brother, David Bach. “At the end of the video, when they announced they had flown Aaron in, I thought it was a joke. Then I turned around and saw him running from the tunnel.
“A tingling sensation went through my whole body. I couldn’t believe it was real.”
The reunion was especially meaningful for the Bach family, who had faced a challenging year. Aaron’s mother, Thu Thi Ho, originally from Vietnam, had recently completed radiation treatment following her breast cancer diagnosis in May.
The close-knit family, consisting of Aaron, his brother, and their mother, found strength and comfort in being together during the holidays.
“Sr. Airman Bach and his family are wonderful people. We’re honored to play a part in bringing them together for the new year,” said Linda Braddy, CEO of the American Red Cross, North Texas Region.
The Red Cross, known for its unwavering support of military families, worked with military leadership and American Airlines to coordinate Aaron’s travel back to the United States. Aaron’s journey was seamless and memorable.
“I got to fly business class for the first time, which was amazing. From Tokyo to Dallas, the whole experience was unforgettable,” said Aaron. “Being on the field, with my family at the center of attention, felt like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
Since returning home, Aaron has spent his time catching up with family and friends and enjoying his favorite foods. He and his brother even shared another first—trying lobster at a seafood boil.
Reflecting on the experience, Aaron encouraged other service members to pursue similar opportunities,” said Aaron. “No matter how far-fetched it seems, everyone has a story to tell. I felt like I had little hope of getting my story heard because I was competing with people from different branches of the military. But others believed in my story and helped me get my message across. All you can do is put your message out there and hope for the best.”
Aaron, who serves as a medical materials technician in the U.S. Air Force, had nominated himself for the opportunity through a program sponsored by ESPN. His story, like so many others, showcases the incredible sacrifices of service members and their families and the importance of initiatives like this one.
The Red Cross’s assistance to Aaron is part of its broader mission through the Service to the Armed Forces (SAF) program, which provides emergency communications, financial assistance, and resources to service members during times of need.
For the Red Cross, stories like Aaron’s illustrate the profound impact of their mission. By ensuring that service members remain connected to the people who matter most, they bring hope, healing, and joy to families when it matters most.
Aaron felt that his reunion with his family was bigger than their personal story. He wants the Bach family’s unforgettable reunion to be a testament to the enduring power of community, compassion, and love and an inspiration for other service personnel stationed overseas.
