All birthdays are worth celebrating, but Richard Overton's is usually recognized with a little extra pomp and circumstance. At 109, the Austin, Texas, resident has the honor of being recognized as the oldest living U.S. veteran.
According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, Overton was born in 1906 and served in the U.S. Army's all-black 1887th Engineer Aviation Battalion from 1942 to 1945. His World War II service was primarily in the South Pacific, including time in Iwo Jima, Guam, Hawaii and Palau.
Because all veterans are not registered with the Department of Veteran Affairs, it is impossible to verify Overton's title of oldest living vet. But the 109-year-old is widely recognized to hold the honor. And it appears that it is not a title that he will be losing any time soon. According to a profile in The Washington Post, Overton still drives, tends to his yard and enjoys whiskey in his coffee.
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When asked about the secret to longevity, Overton told the Post that the question would need to be taken up with God.
"He brought me here and he's taking care of me, and nothing I can do about it," Overton said.
So how does a 109-year-old celebrate his birthday? In this case, with burgers, milkshakes, cigars and, of course, a little whiskey. Overton's "Mighty Fine at 109"-themed party was sponsored by Mighty Fine Burgers, Fries and Shakes and thoroughly enjoyed by the vet and his neighbors.