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News | Feb. 20, 2020

DLA Distribution San Joaquin participates in Operation Valentine for 104-year-old Marine

By Annette Silva DLA Distribution

Employees and children of DLA Distribution San Joaquin, California, raised the spirits of 104-year-old retired Marine Maj. Bill White by participating in Operation Valentine.

White spent 30 years on active duty in the Marine Corps and was awarded the Purple Heart Medal, the one he is most proud of. He received this badge of honor for surviving the Battle of Iwo Jima.

DLA Distribution San Joaquin participates in Operation Valentine for 104-year-old Marine
A team from Defense Logistics Agency Distribution San Joaquin, California, delivered valentine’s in support of Operation Valentine. From left to right: Michelle Pantoja, Civilian Welfare Fund representative; Annette Silva, public affairs; Kristen Roberts, Civilian Welfare Fund chair; Rose Helton, AFGE Local 1546 representative and Jodie Johnson-Micks, deputy commander.
DLA Distribution San Joaquin participates in Operation Valentine for 104-year-old Marine
DLA Distribution San Joaquin participates in Operation Valentine for 104-year-old Marine
A team from Defense Logistics Agency Distribution San Joaquin, California, delivered valentine’s in support of Operation Valentine. From left to right: Michelle Pantoja, Civilian Welfare Fund representative; Annette Silva, public affairs; Kristen Roberts, Civilian Welfare Fund chair; Rose Helton, AFGE Local 1546 representative and Jodie Johnson-Micks, deputy commander.
Photo By: Courtesy of The Oaks at Inglewood
VIRIN: 200218-D-D0441-0001

In an interview with KTXL TV in Sacramento, California, he mentioned that scrapbooking is one of his favorite hobbies. He keeps a lifetime full of memories carefully preserved on the bookshelves in his room organized by each year.

For Valentine’s Day, White wanted to add to his collection with cards from people around the globe. To his surprise, this happened. He has received over 70,000 Valentine’s Day cards from around the world.

During the Operation Valentine Open House event at his assisted living center in Stockton, a small group from DLA Distribution San Joaquin had the privilege and honor of delivering valentines to White on behalf of the distribution center.

The outpouring of support and gratitude was evident as you walked into the building. Every wall and table was adorned with White’s Valentine’s Day cards. People from every walk of life waited in line to personally meet this true patriot. Members of the Armed Forces, law enforcement, community members and children all waited in line to thank him for his service.

White told KTXL that he will save every one of them and be a part of his history.