But when Aidan Smoothy visited his brother Connor at Maitland Public School last Friday to surprise him after almost a year away, he couldn't contain his tears of happiness.

Aidan, 22, lived in Rutherford for most of his life before joining the Australian Defence Force 18 months ago.

"He didn't know I was coming," Aidan said of his younger brother, who hadn't seen him since Christmas.

"He's been wanting to see me for a long time.

"I missed out on his birthday and knew a surprise would cheer him up.

"I'm glad to be home even though it's only for a short amount of time and that I was able to surprise my little brother in my uniform as he has always wanted to see me in it in front of him instead of a photo," Aidan said.

"I enjoy the feeling of being home, it's a nice feeling compared to being away all the time.

"It's not always easy dealing with stuff when you don't have your family or close friends around you, I've got good Army mates, don't get me wrong, but it's just different."

Aidan also shocked his other siblings.

There was another school visit for one brother, one to his sister at her Year 12 graduation, and farewells to a third brother who followed in his footsteps and joined the Air Force.