WASHINGTON – Ahead of Veterans Day, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) honored America’s oldest Marine—Mr. Roy Drinkard of Cullman—and Army Master Sergeant Harvey Mathis of Enterprise.
Senator Tuberville’s remarks can be found below or watched on YouTube or Rumble.
“I like to think that my state of Alabama is the most patriotic in the country. We stand for the flag. And we honor those who have made freedom possible. That’s why it’s no surprise that the first-ever Veterans Day celebration was held in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1947. World War II veteran Raymond Weeks organized a parade to mark “National Veterans Day,” and continued to do so every year until his death in 1985. It’s important to remember ALL who were willing to sacrifice to keep our country free. That’s why every year, I come to the Senate floor to recognize some of Alabama’s heroes. Their service did not end when their time in the military did—they have selflessly contributed to their communities long after taking off their military uniforms.
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. 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.
Alabama is also home to Army Master Sergeant Harvey Mathis of Enterprise. Harvey said that his legacy of military service can be traced all the way back to the Revolutionary War. He retired from the military in 2000 after almost 25 years of service. Harvey then entered the police academy at the age of 42 so that he could continue to protect and serve as a law enforcement officer. He became a chief investigator, where he helped bring those committing crimes against children to justice. Harvey also served as part of the Dale County Sheriff’s Department and as Police Chief for the City of [Daleville] during his 15 years in law enforcement. Alabama is grateful for those like Harvey who have answered the call to defend Americans against evil at home and abroad.
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.’ 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.”
Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.
###
