Army of Love: Fort Cavazos soldiers spend Valentine’s Day with nursing home residents

GATESVILLE, Texas (KWTX) - Some Fort Cavazos soldiers helped spread the love this Valentine’s Day at a local nursing home.

The soldiers were on hand at Hillside Medical Lodge in Gatesville Wednesday for a party the facility named “Army of Love.”

Hillside Activity Director Kami Williams said the soldiers came at the request of the women who live there.

“Because our residents wanted some men,” Williams laughed. “They originally wanted us to bring our husbands and so I was like ‘I might can get y’all some soldiers.”

The soldiers came bearing gifts thanks to the Boys & Girls Club of Gatesville’s Resale Shop, which donated nearly 50 teddy bears of all kinds to pass out to the residents.

The soldiers danced with the residents and also helped serve them punch and cake.

The party was held in the dining hall of the senior care center.

While many of the resident’s spouses have died, a “sweetheart table” was set up with pictures of the couples from years past on display.

“It’s just a symbol of love and a time for them to remember their honeys,” Williams said.

Hillside Medical Lodge is known for their fun and over-the-top activities.

They recently held a Mardi Grad themed dress-up party.

They also had a Super Bowl watch party this past weekend complete with pizza and beer.

The next event they’re planning is an Easter party where they plan to bring 40 live rabbits for different activities like rabbit racing.

You can follow their fun on the Hillside Medical Lodge Facebook page.

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