Valentines Day is all about spreading love and joy. It’s that special day when people come up with romantic gestures to express their feelings to their partners. While it’s become a norm for people to celebrate this mushy day, there are others who haven’t really experienced the beauty of this magical day.
Like this 104-year-old World War II veteran who had never celebrated Valentine’s Day up until now. Major Bill White, who served 30 years on active duty, had never exchanged a love letter with his late wife. However, the retired major who lives in an assisted living facility in Stockton, California enjoys filling memories into scrapbooks, reports CNN. And, this year for Valentine’s day he wanted to expand his collection of memories.
So, a fellow resident decided to help the Major by asking friends to send greetings to honor the veteran. He even launched a social media campaign called “Operation Valentine” for the task. Expecting to get a few cards, Major Bill was shocked to receive a mountain of nearly 300,000 love letters and well-wishes from strangers all around the world, reports News18.
Have a look at his new proud collection:
104-year-old veteran Maj. Bill White was hoping to gather 100 valentines for his scrapbook, but the operation went viral and he's now received more than 300,000 messages. https://t.co/Yos7AoOFET pic.twitter.com/gZ05X14BJl
— CNN (@CNN) February 15, 2020
In fact, Guinness Book of Records was later called to check if the overwhelming response had broken any records or created a new one. Due to the large amount of mail, the major’s family had to ask volunteers to help read all the warm wishes to him.
“I’ll save every one of them like I’ve been saving little things that have come up until right now and they’ll be a personal part of my history,” the Major was quoted saying by New York Post.
A week before Valentine’s Day, at least 70,000 responses had arrived from people all around the globe. The number kept increasing thereafter. So, for now, Major White surely has a lot of cards to keep him busy for a while. And honestly, such touching stories make me believe in love.