US Marine Matthew Rodgers just wanted to surprise his parents by coming home a little early for Thanksgiving. But a bigger surprise awaited him: His sister threw him a parade.

Matthew's parents were the only two people in town who hadn't assembled for the festivities. Police and fire fighters were awaiting word of the lance corporal's arrival, along with marching band and mayor.

For municipalities, such events can take months to plan. It took the Gaithersburg, MD teenager and her friend fewer than 10 days.

(SEE the full story with photos in the Washington Post)