Heartwarming Homecoming at Euclid’s “The Big Clean”
Master Sergeant Kelly Overstreet's early return from deployment and her surprise reunion with her family have become a highlight of this year's Big Clean.
In an emotional surprise that captured the hearts of all in attendance, longtime volunteer Chris Grad was unexpectedly reunited with his girlfriend, Master Sergeant Kelly Overstreet, during the annual Big Clean Earth Day cleanup event in Euclid. Overstreet, who has been serving with the United States Air Force and was deployed last September to Camp Lemonnier in Djibouti, managed to return home two days early, orchestrating a series of surprises that culminated in a touching moment at the community cleanup.
Chris Grad, a dedicated resident of Euclid, has been a pillar of The Big Clean initiative since its inception. Each year, Grad donates his time and the use of his pick-up truck to support the event, collecting litter, and removing unwanted items such as tires, furniture, and large trash items from around the community.
Kelly Overstreet, a mother of two young boys and a resident of Mentor, has also been an active participant in the last two Big Clean events, driving the truck alongside Chris. Her surprise return not only brought joy to her family but added a layer of community spirit to the event. After surprising her sons at their school on Friday, Overstreet's appearance at The Big Clean on Saturday morning was a well-kept secret that left attendees and especially Chris Grad, overwhelmed with emotion.
"The Big Clean has always been about bringing our community together to care for our environment, but today, it was also about the love and sacrifice of one of our own," said a fellow volunteer. "Seeing Chris and Kelly reunite reminds us of the importance of community, family, and support for our service members."
Kelly Overstreet's early return and the surprise reunion have become a highlight of this year's Big Clean, showcasing the event's role in fostering not just environmental stewardship but deep community bonds. As Euclid looks forward to future cleanups, this year's event will be remembered for its powerful demonstration of love, service, and community spirit.
For more information about The Big Clean and how you can participate in or support future events, please contact lbeck@cityofeuclid.com.
