America’s Oldest WWII Combat Veteran, Turns 111 Today, May 11th.
Richard Overton was born May 11, 1906 in Bastrop County. When he came of age, he served in the Pacific Theater from 1942 to 1945 as part of the all-black 1887th Engineer Aviation Battalion.
The Austin native has lived on the same street, Hamilton Avenue, for more than seven decades. Now, his dedication to his country and local community have earned him a new honor.
According to KXAN, Overton’s street will be renamed “Richard Overton Avenue.”
Overton has received numerous honors over the years. He’s been invited to the White House by then-President Barack Obama. He was also personally given a bottle of whiskey from Texas Governor Rick Perry.
Last year, his community rallied to help him stay in his home after his family questioned his ability to take care of himself, but it appears that Richard is doing just fine.
Even at the age of 111, Richard still has plenty of energy. He gives credit to God for his longevity and continues to attend church. He told the Wall Street Journal that he smokes “at least 12 Tampa Sweet cigars a day” and also credits drinking whiskey as his secret to his longevity.
One can only imagine the changes he has seen in this world and the stories he has to tell after 111 years!
Happy birthday, Richard!