Father & daughter bond over Whataburger coffee 

Do you remember a time when you could get a cup of coffee for a nickel? Tina Mazzola and her stepdad, Richard Palmer, certainly remember. 

Back in 1983, Whataburger ran a promotion where customers could bring their nickel mug to any location and get it refilled for just five cents. Richard was stationed in Corpus Christi, Texas when he got his nickel mug. 

Tina says that mug went everywhere with him. When they were out on the road, anytime they came across a Whataburger was a chance for him to use it. 

“I love that cup because it created so many fun, happy times for us,” Tina said. 

After years of heavy use, the mug was on its last leg and unfortunately ended up being left behind during a move to Florida. 

Coffee for veterans offering brings things full circle 

One day, Tina noticed at the Whataburger drive-thru window a sign announcing that veterans and active-duty military could get a free 16-ounce coffee. Memories came flooding back, and she was excited to share the news with Richard. 

Along with memories of Whataburger, Tina and Richard share another special connection: they’re both veterans. 

“Being in the military definitely was a huge bond,” Tina said. “Getting to talk the same language, share those memories and experiences, made us stronger and more supportive of each other.” 

Richard, whose father was a 27-year career Navy man, served 13-and-a-half years, starting in the Army, going to Vietnam with the Marines, and finishing in the Navy. Tina spent 23 years on Active Duty with the Coast Guard before she retired. 

“There have been times I've been away from home, in situations where it was cold, working long hours, and a cup of coffee would have made all the difference in the world to me,” Tina said. 

Now, Tina and Richard can both get their cup of coffee — no mug or nickel needed. 

“It makes you feel like you are appreciated and cared about,” Tina said. “Even a cup of coffee makes a difference.”