Frank S. Wright salutes at the Pearl Harbor Day observance in Stockton, 2022. (Photo: Clifford Oto/The Stockton Record)
World War II Marine Corps Veteran and American Legion Karl Ross Post 16 member Frank S. Wright is hoping for a mailbox full of birthday wishes as he prepares to turn 100 on July 5 in Lodi, California. Wright, who served with distinction in the Pacific Theater, wants to receive 100,000 postcards or letters to help celebrate his milestone and share his story with people across the country.
Those who want to help Wright reach his goal can send birthday cards to:
Frank S. Wright
Stockton Marine Corps Club
PO Box 691045
Stockton, CA 95269
Born on July 5, 1925, in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, Wright joined the Marine Corps at just 16 by lying about his age. Motivated by the attack on Pearl Harbor, he enlisted in January 1942 and went on to serve in four historic battles: Guadalcanal, New Georgia, Guam, and Iwo Jima. He was wounded in Guam and again in Iwo Jima, earning him two Purple Hearts among other honors, including the Presidential Unit Citation and Navy Unit Commendation.
Wright was part of the 4th Marine Raiders, serving under Colonel James Roosevelt, son of President Franklin D. Roosevelt. He guarded coastal sites, fought through brutal jungle combat, and overcame malaria to stay alongside his unit. During the Battle of Iwo Jima, Wright witnessed the iconic raising of the flag on Mount Suribachi after days of fierce fighting alongside his fellow Marines.
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After the war, Wright served as a Marine Drill Instructor until his discharge in 1946. Today, he remains active with the Stockton Marine Corps Club and American Legion Karl Ross Post 16. Recently, the Secretary of the Navy approved an honorary promotion for Wright to the rank of Sergeant, supported by Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and the Commandant of the Marine Corps.
His commander, Marvin Estuardo HernandezGarcia, helped share Wright’s birthday wish on Facebook, hoping it would reach thousands and go viral. By late May, Wright had received only a handful of cards but says he’s grateful for every single one.
“I open up every card that comes in and every letter that I get. That I appreciate,” Wright said, thanking those who have sent messages so far.
Wright is also a lifelong San Francisco 49ers fan. In January, he attended his first game and was honored during the NFC Championship in Santa Clara.
He has also shared his wartime experiences in two books about his service and sacrifices. As his centennial approaches, Wright says he looks forward to reading every letter that comes his way.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted family connection to the military, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
