World War II veteran Isaac “Ike” Fabela told his family that for his 100th birthday on June 6 this year, he wanted to receive 100 birthday cards.
The word went out and the love came pouring in. Incredibly, Fabela received upwards of 55,000 cards and packages from people all across the nation, and even a few other countries, expressing gratitude for his service. Then Fabela received a birthday card from the one place he would never have expected … the White House.
A video was posted to a Facebook page for Fabela captured the moment he opened the envelope and read the note inside from the president and first lady.
Signed photo and card
The elderly warrior was visibly tickled as he opened the large manila envelope to discover a signed photograph of President Donald Trump.
Digging deeper into the envelope, Fabela found a smaller envelope addressed to him that contained a special message from the Trumps, which he read after retrieving his glasses.
“Happy 100th birthday. Congratulations on the wonderful occasion. We wish you and your loved ones a beautiful and glorious day,” he read.
“We hope your heart is filled with joy knowing that you have experienced this country’s greatest blessing, the freedom … and affection of family and friends over a long, well-lived life,” he continued, choking back tears.
“Your American century is a proud mark of our nation’s remarkable story. We are inspired by your continued strength and spirit as we join your family and friends in … this tremendous milestone,” Fabela read.
“God bless you and happy birthday. Best wishes, … oh my gosh,” said Fabela as he reached the end and discovered the names of the president and first lady.
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This 100-year-old veteran simply wanted to receive 100 birthday cards in honor of his 100th birthday. Instead, he received well more than 55,000 birthday greetings, including a rather special one from the White House.
The appreciation and gratitude this man received from strangers all across the country for both his service to the nation and incredible longevity is nothing short of heartwarming, as was his obviously pleased reaction to receiving a birthday greeting from President Trump.
Simply amazing.