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Tallahassee Centenarian Gets A Drive-By Birthday Surprise

100-year old Rod Dugger waves to well-wishers during his birthday celebration.
Tom Flanigan
/
WFSU News
100-year old Rod Dugger waves to well-wishers during his birthday celebration.

A seemingly endless stream of vehicles bearing friends and relatives slowly cruised by Trinity United Methodist Church on Park Avenue. Seated in front of the church and waving to all passersby was the centennial celebrant, Rod Dugger. Even his protective mask couldn't hide the smile in his voice.

"I've had a wonderful life and wonderful family. I did go into the service, called in twice, and made it through both of them, thank goodness," he remarked.

After naval service in World War II and the Korean War, Dugger was back in Tallahassee and became a successful businessman. Now retired, he promises his second hundred years will be a bit less hectic than his first.

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Tom Flanigan has been with WFSU News since 2006, focusing on covering local personalities, issues, and organizations. He began his broadcast career more than 30 years before that and covered news for several radio stations in Florida, Texas, and his home state of Maryland.

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