The wide world of sports has plenty of gritty competition, but sometimes it gives way to memorable moments for members of the military.

Aaron Rodgers Surprises Military Families

On this Veterans Day 2015, it's a time to be thankful for the men and women that defend this country's honor every single day of the year and for those that have made the ultimate sacrifice to keep America safe throughout its history.

In sports, a lot of times the competition temporarily provides sweet moments of soldiers returning from overseas to surprise their families. Here's a look at some of the best tear-jerking examples of returns throughout the different sports leagues.

Soldier Ecstatic After Ronda Rousey Accepts Invitation To Marine Corps Ball

NFL

Lance Cpl. Cory Lemasters' family believed they attended the Steelers' game against the Bengals to accept an award on his behalf, but he did them one better with a special holiday homecoming.

NHL

The NHL is known for its dangers. Heck, it's the only major sport that legally allows fighting. However, one Marine melted the ice when he returned home -- and had another special surprise up his sleeve for his girlfriend.

NBA

Sgt. David Fuqua had a huge surprise waiting for his unsuspecting family at the Nuggets game. After Rocky the mascot helped dole out birthday surprises to his kids, Fuqua saved the best gift of all for last.

MLB

When her husband Kevin served as the veteran of the game for the Dodgers, US Marine Corps Contractor Nicolle Hernandez-Price had something great in store for him.

NCAA Football

Joshua Ricafrente was very sly when it came to shocking his kids at an ECU Pirates game. Check out what he did after his video to his kids was shown.

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