SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 649
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to
recognize Richard Overton on the grand occasion of his 111th
birthday, on May 11, 2017; and
WHEREAS, Richard Overton is America's oldest living combat
veteran; born May 11, 1906, he served the nation with distinction
in the United States Army in World War II; and
WHEREAS, He was a member of the all-black 1887th Engineer
Aviation Battalion; during his service, he witnessed the
destruction at Pearl Harbor and fought in such Pacific theater
engagements as Iwo Jima and Okinawa; and
WHEREAS, He credits his longevity to beginning his day with
a splash of whiskey in his morning coffee, smoking at least 12
Tampa Sweet cigars a day, and enjoying a steady diet of fried
catfish and butter pecan ice cream; he has also kept an active
lifestyle by working in the yard, trimming trees, helping with the
horses, cleaning the driveways, and not watching television; and
WHEREAS, Richard Overton has lived through times and
experienced events that many people only know from history books;
his life has given him a unique perspective on current events,
and there is much to be learned from the wisdom he has gained over
the years; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 85th
Legislature, hereby commend Richard Overton on his exceptional
service to the country and his many achievements and extend to
him best wishes on his 111th birthday; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for
him as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate.
Watson
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President of the Senate
I hereby certify that the
above Resolution was adopted by
the Senate on April 20, 2017.
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Secretary of the Senate
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Member, Texas Senate