Image: Facebook/Stephanie Veitenheimer
A World War II veteran who will be turning 100 years old on March 2 had one wish: to receive 100 cards to mark his 100th birthday.
Joe Cuba’s request was made known on social media last Feb. 20. A photo of him holding a sign with his birthday wish written on it was shared by a certain Stephanie Veitenheimer, a worker at the Brooksdale Midwestern assisted living community in Texas where Cuba resides.
Cuba’s sign read: “I’m a WWII veteran who will be turning 100 on March 2, 2019. I would like to receive 100 birthday cards.”
It did not take long until the post made its way to thousands of netizens who were more than willing to send a birthday card his way. Cuba definitely got more than he bargained for, though, as he has gotten thousands of cards—and continues to—since the post was made, as per various reports.
The official Facebook page of Brookdale Midwestern shared on Feb. 23 that Cuba received many calls, cards and gifts from strangers following his initial request.
“Please continue sending cards,” the page wrote. “We know that Joe appreciates and is truly grateful for the generosity you all have shown him.”
Another post showed Cuba posing beside his numerous birthday cards and gifts that stuffed boxes, filled a filing shelf, and took over the space of a dresser on Feb. 26.
“Joe continues to be amazed with everyone’s generosity,” Brookdale Midwestern said. “Keep the cards coming as we celebrate 100 years with G.I. Joe.”
Meanwhile, a certain Kevin Baker went out of his way and rode out on his motorcycle to pay the WWII veteran a visit at the assisted living facility.
“265 miles later, meeting the man himself, Joe Cuba,” Baker shared on Facebook on Feb. 26. “He had his own sign in sheet and everything.”
He shared that he and Cuba exchanged a few words and that he congratulated him for reaching 100 years old. He also said he did not want to stay long, since he had to wake Cuba from his nap.
“Thanks to the folks at Brookdale Midwestern and everyone who signed a card for this hero,” said Baker.
Brookdale Midwestern’s latest update today, March. 1, showed that a Chik-fil-A restaurant sent Cuba and the residents some treats for lunch. They also posed for pictures with the cow mascot of the fast-food joint.
“Lunch with G.I. Joe compliments of our local Chik-fil-A,” they wrote. “Thank you so much. G.I. Joe and our residents really enjoyed their lunch today.”
In the post, the joyous Cuba can be seen wearing a gray sweater and black cap that read, “It took me 100 years to look this good.”
Advanced happy 100th birthday, Joe! Cody Cepeda /ra
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