Balbir Singh’s Four Decades At McDonald’s Recognized By Franchisee
India-West News Desk
SAUGUS, MA – The world of fast food is known for its constant motion, a whirlwind of orders and quick employee shifts. Yet, for Balbir Singh, one man has provided an anchor of extraordinary consistency.
An immigrant who came to the United States in the early 1980s, Singh recently celebrated a remarkable 40 years of service with McDonald’s, an achievement honored with a red carpet and a grand, heartwarming ceremony, media reports said.
Singh’s journey began at the Saugus, MA McDonald’s outlet in 1985. He started his tenure as a kitchen crew member, tackling the essential and demanding tasks that keep a bustling restaurant running. He dedicated himself to every part of the operation, mastering food preparation, taking on cleaning duties, and managing all manner of back of house operations.
This early commitment to every aspect of the restaurant laid the foundation for his longevity. In an industry defined by high turnover, Singh’s presence was a model of steady, unwavering effort.
His dedication did not go unnoticed. Over time, Singh moved from the kitchen floor into management roles. Today, he oversees four of the nine total McDonald’s outlets operated by franchise owner Lindsay Wallin’s family.
The respect he has earned from his team is captured in their nickname for him: “Papa Bear,” a nod to his role as a patient and reliable mentor within the restaurant family.
On November 17, Singh arrived at the restaurant in a limousine escort arranged by Wallins. Employees lined up, cheering and waving pom poms as a welcome. The celebration culminated with the presentation of a commemorative “One in Eight” jacket and a $40,000 check, a sum symbolically matching his four decades of dedicated service.