America’s Oldest Veteran Is a Whiskey-Drinking, Cigar-Smoking Badass

Impact

The news: Imagine your favorite Hollywood action hero at 108 years old and you'll get Richard Overton.

Born on May 11, 1906, Overton is believed to be America's oldest war veteran, although this is difficult to verify because of problems with the VA's records.

Even though many of his behaviors seem like a caricature, he's 100% real. Overton starts his mornings off with whiskey in his coffee for the "nutritional benefit," and, according to Fox News, smokes 12 cigars a day.

"Whiskey's a good medicine," Overton told Fox. "It keeps your muscles tender."

Overton claims aspirin, an active lifestyle, avoiding stress and "staying out of trouble" helped extend his life. After his service in World War II, he made furniture and worked for the Texas state treasurer's office. Overton still drives, and as recently as 2013 wasn't dependent on a cane for mobility.

"I got good health and I don't take any medicine," he said. "I also stay busy around the yards, I trim trees, help with the horses. The driveways get dirty, so I clean them. I do something to keep myself moving. I don't watch the television."

We salute you, Mr. Overton.