92-year-old World War II veteran leaves legacy for daughter, fellow veterans

Army veteran Willard Mann in uniform.
Army veteran Willard Mann in uniform.

From the moment you meet him, it’s hard not to be in awe of World War II veteran Willard Mann. He and his daughter, Cheryl, share an unmatched mastery of southern hospitality. His home serves as a breathtaking exhibit of all of his late wife Opal’s art pieces, along with a modest display of his military medals, educational degrees and other accomplishments he earned in his 92 years of life. He is a treasure trove of heartwarming stories about his service and his family. While he dearly misses his sweet Opal, he pushes on with a zest for life and a passion for his fellow veterans that is hard to beat. His love for both his family and fellow veterans is what led him to find the perfect win-win when he was looking for a way to take care of both.

Several years ago, Mann found a way to support his fellow veterans while also creating a lifetime fixed revenue stream for himself and a legacy for his daughter. He has enjoyed the benefits of receiving fixed payments for life and a charitable deduction each time he takes out a new charitable gift annuity through the DAV Charitable Service Trust. By naming his daughter (who is over the minimum age of 60) as the second annuitant, Mann has ensured his legacy will continue through her lifetime and beyond, serving the countless veterans who continue to need and deserve our support. Mann said he is proud to leave this legacy, as he knows what it’s like to be a disabled veteran himself.