Tipsheet

Feel Good Friday: Nation's Oldest Veteran Smokes 12 Cigars A Day at Age 111

Richard Overton is 111 years old and is the oldest veteran in the United States of America. He has lived in the same house for the past 70 years that he built himself. Overton routinely smokes 12 cigars a day and keeps his whistle wet with a nice cold Coca-Cola and a splash of whiskey, reports Dallas News.

The super centenarian “recently had a home makeover — courtesy of Meals on Wheels of Central Texas, the Home Depot Foundation, the city of Austin and Honor Flight. The mustard shag carpet was ripped out in favor of wood paneling. There's new kitchen appliances, a walk-in shower, a new hot water heater, and finally, central A/C.”

Overton served in World War II and has lived in Austin, Texas since returning from service. This past August, Overton was rushed to the hospital after falling ill. The veteran had caught pneumonia in both lungs.  But, he quickly recovered and now spends most of his time back again on his front porch, AKA “his stage.”

It is on that front porch where Overton puffs away at his cigars, all while spreading his positive attitude and humble demeanor. 

A few years ago, National Geographic made a wonderful short film about Overton when was 109 years old. The film is below and is highly recommended viewing.