William "Lucky" Mullins is the oldest living WWII veteran in our post. We were honored to host a birthday celebration at the assisted living facility where Lucky resides. He enjoyed his special day with family, friends and members of Post 44. This well-coordinated party included decorations, speakers, singing and, of course, birthday cake and ice cream.
Lucky is blind and his hearing is impaired, but with family by his side, he thoroughly enjoyed this special day in his honor.
Lucky was born May 17, 1919, to parents Milburn Guy & Buena Vista Mullins.
He had 1 brother, Homer; a sister, Leeta; and 2 half-brothers, JC and GJ.
Lucky enlisted in the Army Sept. 17, 1940. He was honorably discharged on July 1, 1945.
Battles & Campaigns:
Aleutian Islands, Northern France, Rhineland Central Europe
Decoration & Citations:
American Defense Service Medal
Asiatic Pacific Service Medal
European African Middle Eastern Service Medal
Good Conduct Medal
After his discharge, Lucky married his wife, Marvelyn, on Nov. 23, 1946.
Lucky went to work for the Atlantic Ridgefield Oil Company until he retired in 1981.
Lucky and Marvelyn were married 71 years before her death.
After Lucky retired from AROC in 1981, he and Marvelyn moved to Riddle, Ore., and lived there for 34 years.
They had 4 children; Phillip, Joe, Jaylene and Cynthia.
10 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren.
Lucky loved fishing, golfing and bowling.
Lucky has volunteered at the VA hospital in Roseburg, Ore. He was passionate about helping and spending time with other veterans.
When asked about his life or military service, with a smile he responds, "I have had a good life and am proud to have served my country."
His daughter Cynthia shared with me; her dad has always had a positive outlook on life no matter what trials and tribulations came his way.
She said this positive attitude comes from his strong faith in God.
As the coordinator of this event, I must admit this was one of the most significant times in my life. I was truly honored to be a part of Lucky's celebration. Spending precious time with him and his family was truly an experience I will never forget.
Lucky was presented with a folded flag in a wooden case by Commander Jen McDonnell from the 5th District.
While Lucky's actual birthday is still a couple weeks away, Post 44 would like to say "Happy Birthday" Lucky.
You are our treasure and we thank you for your service.