WASHINGTON – America’s oldest Marine resides in Cullman and was among two Alabama veterans saluted Monday by Sen. Tommy Tuberville on the Senate floor.
Tuberville (R-Auburn) recognized 105-year-old Roy Drinkard of Cullman and retired Army Master Sgt. Harvey Mathis of Enterprise on the eve of Veterans Day.
“Our state is home to nearly half a million veterans, including America’s oldest living Marine and World War II veteran — Mr. Roy Drinkard of Cullman,” Tuberville (R-Auburn) said. “After returning home from the war, Roy rolled up his sleeves to help recruit new businesses to Alabama as part of the ‘Flying Fifty.’
“He founded Drinkard Chevrolet and later led Drinkard Development, helping shape Cullman into the thriving community it is today. I was proud to be with Roy earlier this year as he celebrated his 105th birthday. He’s still going strong with no signs of slowing down. Roy remains involved in First Baptist Church of Cullman and serves on the Board of Trustees for his alma mater, Troy University.
Mathis retired from the military in 2000 after almost 25 years of service. Harvey then entered the police academy at the age of 42 and climbed through the ranks of chief investigator, serving with the Dale County Sheriff’s Department and finally as police chief for Daleville.
“As we prepare to commemorate Veterans Day this weekend, I remind us of the quote, ‘If you want to thank a soldier, be the kind of American worth fighting for,’” Tuberville said. “May we all live worthy of the sacrifices made for us. To all our veterans and their families, we say ‘Thank you.’
“May God Bless you, and continue to bless our great country.”
Tuberville is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging committees.
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