Glenn Ward, a 102-year-old U.S. Navy veteran, recently celebrated his birthday at Hooters, continuing a family tradition that centers around his fondness for hot wings. Ward, who served during World War II and flew 102 combat missions as a naval aviator in the Korean War, resides in Arlington, Virginia.
Ward's tradition at Hooters, a restaurant chain known for its chicken wings, reportedly dates back at least 15 years. His son, Terry Ward, noted that the gatherings have become significant family events, with approximately 70 people attending Ward's 100th birthday celebration in 2024. The restaurant frequently reserves a separate room for the occasion.
Ward specifically favors the 3 Mile Island hot wing sauce, one of the spicier options offered by the restaurant. "Hot wings, that's the main attraction there, hot wings," he told Fox News Digital.
Reflecting on his earlier life, Ward described his childhood on a 6-acre farm in Ohio, where his family raised hundreds of chickens and cultivated seasonal fruits and vegetables. He recalled that food was plentiful and wholesome, with produce preserved through canning. "Everything was seasonal," Ward said. "We ate whatever happened to be in season."
Homemade ice cream, made with fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or peaches, was a Sunday treat. Lacking refrigeration, the family would crush ice in a burlap sack to use in a hand-cranked freezer, consuming the day's batch before it spoiled. Another childhood favorite was a dish called pan haus, similar to scrapple, made from cooked meat trimmings, cornmeal, and seasonings.
Ward's culinary experiences broadened significantly during his naval career. He humorously remarked that the Navy's food was so good, it inspired him to stay in the service. He also noted that meals today are generally balanced, often starting with a protein shake and including meat, vegetables, and carbohydrates for dinner.
Ward attributes his longevity to a "balanced diet" and the eating habits established in his youth. "I might make it to 115," he stated with a smile. "I'm hanging in there."
