A World War II veteran who has eaten breakfast at his local McDonald’s almost every day for 36 years turned 100 last Friday and celebrated his memorable birthday by driving himself to the fast food restaurant and throwing a big party. I opened it.
West Virginia resident Xan White and his group of friends, known as the ROMEO Club, have been trading stories and hash browns inside the Elkins store for more than 30 years, WDTV reported.
Golden Arches held a birthday celebration for the 100-year-old on Friday, complete with decorations and a birthday wish from the governor.
“I’ve worked here for 24 years and I’ve seen Zan almost every morning. It’s a pleasure to see him every morning and it’s one of the highlights of my day,” said Mark, the restaurant’s area supervisor. Godwin told the station.
Mr. White, named after a former sheriff, has lived in Elkins all his life, except when he served in World War II. At one point, White explained, he started a group called “Retired Seniors Eating Out Club,” or ROMEO for short, that met at Mickey D’s.
This elderly person surprisingly still has a driver’s license after recently renewing it. Godwin credits McDonald’s for the longevity of its longtime customers.
“I definitely come to McDonald’s every morning and drink McDonald’s coffee,” Godwin joked.
West Virginia Governor Jim Justice sent Mr. White a certificate to commemorate the milestone.
“As you look back fondly, I know you are happy to see the many lives you touched in a positive way,” Justice wrote to him.
The local sheriff’s office jokingly handed him a ticket and plaque for 100 years of reckless driving, and the mayor declared the day Than White Day.
“I asked him what the secret was and he just grinned at me. So I hope that means I have to laugh a lot too. Congratulations, Mr. White. He’s been a great citizen to us, and we’re honored to have him,” the mayor said. Jerry Marco told WDTV.
Meanwhile, White vowed to stick with his morning routine.
“I’ve been here for 36 years,” White said with a laugh. “I can’t stop now.”
