(WDNews) – Senator Tommy Tuberville honored two of Alabama’s most distinguished heroes — 105-year-old Marine veteran Roy Drinkard of Cullman and Army Master Sergeant Harvey Mathis of Enterprise — during his annual Veterans Day address on the Senate floor.
“I like to think that my state of Alabama is the most patriotic in the country,” Tuberville said. “We stand for the flag. And we honor those who have made freedom possible.”
He reminded listeners that the first Veterans Day celebration in the nation began in Birmingham 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,” Tuberville noted. “It’s important to remember ALL who were willing to sacrifice to keep our country free.”
Tuberville recognized Mr. Roy Drinkard as America’s oldest living Marine and a proud World War II veteran. “After returning home from the war, Roy rolled up his sleeves to help recruit new businesses to Alabama as part of the ‘Flying Fifty,’” Tuberville said. “He founded Drinkard Chevrolet and later led Drinkard Development, helping shape Cullman into the thriving community it is today.”
Tuberville added, “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.”
The senator also praised Army Master Sergeant Harvey Mathis of Enterprise, whose service spans nearly 25 years in the military. “Harvey said that his legacy of military service can be traced all the way back to the Revolutionary War,” Tuberville said. “He retired from the military in 2000 and entered the police academy at the age of 42 so that he could continue to protect and serve.”
Tuberville highlighted Mathis’ second career in law enforcement, including his time with the Dale County Sheriff’s Department and as Police Chief in Daleville. “Harvey helped bring those committing crimes against children to justice,” Tuberville said. “Alabama is grateful for those like Harvey who have answered the call to defend Americans against evil at home and abroad.”
Tuberville closed his remarks with a reflection: “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.”
