Michael McCormack had walked into the Edwards AFB Burger King many times before, but he wasn’t prepared for the welcome he received one day in December.
On that visit, he was greeted by members of the Burger King and Edwards BX teams, who had prepared a surprise celebration of the aircraft ordnance systems mechanic’s retirement after 40 years of public service—20 years of active duty in the Navy followed by 20 years of Air Force civil service.
The BK team knows McCormack well. He’s a loyal customer who dined there at least twice a week. His standing order—Whopper, Have-sies (half fries, half onion rings) and chicken fingers—stays in an associate’s mind.
“He has been a loyal guest of Edwards BK for as long as I can remember, and I have been here almost 20 years,” Edwards BK Manager Rae Fulkerson said at the celebration. “We have many regular customers, but Michael is definitely one who sticks out. When you see him walk in, you already know to ask if he will be having onion rings, so we can cook them to order for him. He is always a pleasure to speak with and extremely friendly.”
When a friend and co-worker alerted Burger King about McCormack’s retirement, the team began planning a retirement party, which featured cupcake toppers with McCormack’s image on them.
Fulkerson crowned him “The Honorable King McCormack” with a Burger King crown that has his name on it, presenting him with 10 cards for free Whopper and Original Chicken combo meals. McCormack also received a box of Burger King swag, including a shirt, thermos and more.
Edwards BX General Manager Keon Boney, on behalf of Western Region Senior Vice President Ronny Rexrode, presented McCormack with a challenge coin as well as a $100 Exchange gift card.
McCormack said he was grateful for the celebration, which featured friends and colleagues as well as the Edwards Exchange teams.
“Michael was very surprised and happy,” Fulkerson said later. “He was like a kid on Christmas with his smiles!”
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