He served in World War II and the Korean War.
ACWORTH, Ga. — A World War II Navy veteran went to “eat more chicken” at a popular restaurant to celebrate living to nearly a century.
Richard Stroud was just 15 years old when he decided he wanted to fly. According to an article on the U.S Department of Veterans Affairs (DAV) website, Stroud enlisted in the Navy at age 17 and trained as a machine gunner before serving in World War II. Later, he attended flight school while in the Navy, according to the DAV website, and earned his wings. According to DAV, this training enabled him to serve as a pilot in the Korean War.
After leaving the Navy, Stroud spent 62 years working as an aeronautical engineer.
Now, at 99, Stroud spends his days, mostly Tuesdays, in a less stressful environment: Chick-fil-A.
According to the restaurant, he is a member of a local seniors’ group that gathers at the restaurant every Tuesday, in a fun “tradition that has become the highlight of their week,” as well as the restaurant’s.
Although September 16, 2025, was a particularly special day.
“To honor his milestone birthday, Chick-fil-A Acworth hosted a joyful celebration complete with Chick-fil-A menu classics, cake, a special gift box, a Chick-fil-A plush Cow wearing a navy-inspired ensemble and the company of his closest friends.”