Richard Overton isn’t your typical veteran. In fact, he’s America’s oldest surviving veteran at 111-years-young.
He’s also a cigar smoking, whiskey drinking, gun-toting man from Texas. In short, he’s an amazing individual who’s lived an amazing life.
One thing Overton has never done is visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C.
That all changed this past weekend after a conversation with Robert F. Smith, an African American businessman, investor, and philanthropist, whose net worth stands at $4.4 billion.
After a brief visit with Overton, Smith arranged for a trip to the museum, which included another first – traveling on a private jet.
On Saturday, 111 year old WWII veteran Richard Overton of Austin was flown to Washington, D.C., for a tour of the National Museum of African American History and Culture: https://t.co/uhuzb5fMlf
— Ted Cruz (@tedcruz) April 10, 2018
Smith’s philanthropy involving the National Museum of African American History and Culture can’t be understated. He’s donated $20 million to the landmark center.
Overton’s service to our nation, likewise, should not be understated.
He served in the U.S. Army, fighting in the South Pacific between 1942 and 1945, including stops in Hawaii, Guam, Palau, and Iwo Jima. He is a decorated World War II veteran, having received a Meritorious Unit Commendation, U.S. Army Good Conduct Medal, World War II Victory Medal, and Expert Rifle Marksmanship Badge, to name a few.
Here’s a video of Overton showing off his guns when he was 109-years young …
On Saturday, Overton boarded Smith’s jet and was given a private tour of the museum. The Washington Post reported that he received a welcoming phone call from a pretty high-ranking individual – retired four-star general and former secretary of state, Colin Powell.
“I enjoyed every bit of the tour,” Overton said after his visit.
He joked that “I didn’t see my name up there,” referring to the World War II exhibit, but later assured his friends, “One of these days it will be.”
Overton, who will celebrate his 112th birthday next month, has long heralded his penchant for whiskey and cigars for his longevity. He has indicated that he smokes 12 of his favorite cigars per day. The Washington Post reported that on his 109th birthday, Overton celebrated with cigars, milkshakes, burgers and a big party.
We can’t wait to see what his 112th will bring!
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