Paul Graham and his daughter Mo. Courtesy of Shell Canada

A local father of 3 is being celebrated for being both a firefighter for 13 years and a great dad for 29 years.

WOODSTOCK - A 13 year veteran of the Woodstock Fire Department got the surprise of a lifetime recently.

Paul Graham's daughter submitted the firefighter to be featured in a Father's Day tribute commercial for Shell Canada.

While filming, Graham thought he was in a documentary about firefighting. His family kept things top secret.

"The chief was the only one who was aware that is was a commercial."

The father of three is was featured for being both a community servant as a fire fighter for the past 13 years and a loving father for 29 years.

Graham's youngest daughter Mo submitted her father to be cast in the commercial.

"They were looking for real people for the commercial, they didn't want actors. They wanted children who lived away from their parents or found it hard to be away from their father and they wanted the father to be someone who served the community, so I was their fit."

The prices at the pump these days can make you tear up, but so will this commercial that was created by the gas giant. It's a powerful message about one Woodstock family and their experience living apart. Graham says the commercial is something he will treasure.

"It's hard when you are a family and you are apart. It's a feel good commercial and my lord, I think we can use more of that in this world for sure."

Shell Canada flew in Graham's daughter Mo from University in Halifax to surprise him during the filming of the commercial, he had no idea and was filled with emotion when she stepped in.

It took Graham 13 years to finally be hired on at the Woodstock Fire Department he wrote his first exam when was 19 years old and a father of one, he says he was determined though.

"I always knew it was the perfect fit for me, and that I always wanted to serve the community. It has been quite the journey for me. I always tell my kids, that the journey can sometimes be the best part."

After many attempts, and and a thrilling journey with his wife Sherry, he was hired for his dream dream job at 32 years old.

The commercial has had thousands of hits since it was released online. Before you watch, grab a tissue, you may need it.

To view the commercial, click here.



