Hollywood Post 43 Teams with Bob's Big Boy for Blood Drive

Hollywood Post 43 Executive Committee Member Arnold Strong & The Iconic Bob
Photo Credit: Arnold Strong

BURBANK - In an emblematic display of community commitment, members from the prestigious Hollywood Post 43 of the American Legion joined hands with Viet Nam veteran Gregory Alaimo on August 2nd, 2023, for a noteworthy cause: a blood drive hosted at the iconic Bob’s Big Boy diner in Burbank.

Led by Post 43 1st Vice Commander Monica Nichelson, and Gregory Alaimo, the initiative saw an impressive turnout, with 32 units of blood donated throughout the day. This generous donation translates to life-saving blood provisions for 96 patients in need.

Bob’s Big Boy holds a special place in Gregory Alaimo’s heart. While serving in Viet Nam, he randomly met a fellow soldier who happened to also be from Burbank. They made a pact that if they both made it home alive from the war, they would meet for a burger at Bob’s. Thankfully they both made it home and on the very night of their arrival, they met for a burger at Bob’s.

The iconic Bob’s Big Boy, a landmark in Burbank since 1949, turned into a hub of benevolence for the day. Patrons of the diner were welcomed not just by its famed statues and retro ambiance but also by members of the American Legion, encouraging diners and passersby alike to contribute to the cause.

As the day concluded and Bob’s Big Boy returned to its usual retro-diner ambiance, what remained was a palpable sense of accomplishment and hope - hope for many patients who would benefit from the donations and hope that community-driven initiatives like these would continue to shape and strengthen the ties that bind us together.