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World War II veteran Richard Overton celebrated his 109th birthday with whiskey, cigars, and burgers because…YOLO.

Known as the oldest living veteran in America, Overton has been honored by the people of his native state of Texas, President Obama, and veterans from all over the country. He celebrated his birthday on Sunday in Austin with the help of popular eatery Mighty Fine Burgers, Fries and Shakes.

Born in 1906, Overton served in the Pacific Theater from 1942 to 1945. As part of the all-Black 1887th Engineer Aviation Battalion, he says his time in the war gave him perspective on what he wanted out of life.

“War’s nothing to be into,” Overton told USA Today in 2013. “You don’t want to go into the war if you don’t have to. But I had to go. I enjoyed it after I’d went and come back, but I didn’t enjoy it when I was over there. I had to do things I didn’t want to do.”

With the theme “Mighty Fine at 109,” Overton enjoyed burgers and the occasional cigar during the event. Guests included Austin Mayor Steve Adler.

“You are just one of the treasures that we have in this city,” Adler told Overton.

Overton worked at a local furniture store after the war and retired at 65. His co-workers missed him so much, he decided to come back and work for several more years. He also serves as the grand marshal in the city’s Veteran’s Day Parade in November.

In return for his hard work and dedication, he was given an honorary degree from Austin Community College.

SOURCE: Washington Post | VIDEO CREDIT: NDN 

SEE ALSO: 

Senate Bill Doubles Spending On Veterans’ Health

President Obama Presents Medal Of Honor To 24 Veterans

America’s Oldest Living Veteran Celebrates His 109th Birthday With Burgers & Cigars  was originally published on newsone.com