[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 109 (Wednesday, June 25, 2025)]
[Senate]
[Page S3532]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO ROY DRINKARD

 Mr. TUBERVILLE. Mr. President, folks often say that a life 
well lived isn't about how long you live, but how many lives you touch 
along the way. If that is true--and I believe it is--then Mr. Roy 
Drinkard of Cullman, AL, has lived one of the richest lives imaginable. 
On July 12, he will celebrate his 105th birthday, and it is a privilege 
to recognize him here today.
  Roy was born in Falkville, AL, in Morgan County back in 1920, and he 
has witnessed more American history than most of us will ever read 
about. When World War II broke out, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps and 
served with distinction in the Pacific Theater under General Dwight D. 
Eisenhower. He earned the rank of private first class and carried 
himself with honor. Today, he is known as the oldest living Marine in 
the United States, a title that represents far more than just a number. 
It stands for a life defined by courage, sacrifice, and steadfast 
patriotism.
  After the war, Roy returned home and rolled up his sleeves to help 
his community grow. He was part of the ``Flying Fifty,'' a group that 
brought new industry to north Alabama. He founded Drinkard Chevrolet 
and later led Drinkard Development, helping shape Cullman into the 
thriving community it is today. In 2019, the Cullman Times named him 
Distinguished Citizen of the Century; and it is hard to think of anyone 
more deserving.
  Roy is also a proud Troy University graduate and now trustee. He 
still attends every home football game and cheers on the Trojans like a 
fan half his age.
  He is a man of deep faith and a longtime member of First Baptist 
Church in Cullman, where he has been a steady presence for decades.
  If you happen to stop by 412 Public House in downtown Cullman, there 
is a good chance you will run into him. He is always ready with a 
handshake, a good story, and one of his famous $2 bills with his own 
face on it. It has become his trademark--something between a business 
card and a souvenir--and it fits him perfectly.
  Even now, at 105, Roy isn't slowing down. He still hosts events, 
supports local causes, organizes a vendor convention out in Las Vegas, 
and keeps on building the community in every way he can.
  Mr. Drinkard's life is a story of service--to his country, his 
church, his university, and his neighbors. I ask my colleagues to join 
me in wishing him a happy 105th birthday and in thanking him for more 
than a century of leadership, character, and commitment to the people 
of Alabama.

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