A World War II veteran living in an El Paso state veterans home is asking Texans to help him celebrate his 100th birthday with a simple request: send him 100 birthday cards.
Gabriel Malafronte, who flew 15 missions over Germany during the war, turns 100 on November 10.
The Air Force veteran’s wish is part of the Texas Veterans Land Board’s “100 for 100” program, which helps state veterans home residents mark their centennial birthdays. Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham announced the card campaign Monday, encouraging El Paso residents and all Texans to participate.
Malafronte lives at the Ambrosio Guillen Texas State Veterans Home in El Paso. The facility is one of several state-run homes providing long-term care for Texas veterans.
Those wishing to send birthday greetings should mail cards to: Gabriel Malafronte, Ambrosio Guillen, Texas State Veterans Home, 9650 Kenworthy Street, El Paso, Texas 79924.
The Veterans Land Board coordinates the outreach effort with the Texas General Land Office. Both agencies work to support veterans through various programs, including the state’s veterans homes and cemeteries.
Buckingham, who became Texas’s first female Land Commissioner in 2022, oversees both agencies. Her office manages veterans benefits, disaster recovery efforts, public education funding, and border security initiatives.