Congressman Aderholt Mourns the Loss of Cullman Businessman, Oldest Living Marine, Roy Drinkard at 106

Cullman, AL -Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04) released the following statement on the passing of Roy Drinkard of Cullman, a World War II veteran, businessman and longtime community leader. Drinkard was 106 years old.

"Caroline and I were so sad to learn of the passing of our friend, Mr. Roy Drinkard. Roy lived 106 remarkable years, and it would be difficult to measure the impact he had on Cullman, our state and the countless people who had the privilege of knowing him.

"Roy was part of a generation of Americans who understood service as a responsibility. As a young man, he served our nation as a United States Marine during World War II, including service in the Pacific. That commitment to service continued throughout the rest of his life, whether it was through his work in business, his efforts to bring new jobs and opportunities to North Alabama, his support for education, or the many ways he helped people throughout his community.

"Roy had an entrepreneurial spirit and a vision for what Cullman could become. His work with the 'Flying 50' and his nearly three decades leading the Cullman Industrial Development Board helped transform the local economy and attract new industry to the area. But his impact reached far beyond Cullman. In fact, many people may not realize that the new movie theater in Albertville, in Marshall County, is a Roy Drinkard development. It is just one example of the investments he made in communities across North Alabama and throughout the Southeast.

"He was also a longtime trustee of Troy University and believed strongly in education and creating opportunities for the next generation. Over the years, his generosity helped provide educational opportunities for many young people.

"His list of accomplishments is long, but those accomplishments are not what I will remember most about Roy. I will remember the man himself. Roy was a good man, a man of faith and a good friend. He had a genuine interest in people, and no matter who you were, he had a way of making you feel welcome.

"Even at 106, Roy remained an extraordinary representative of the United States Marine Corps and of the World War II generation. He was recently inducted into the Cullman Veterans Hall of Fame, and at the time of his passing held the distinction of being the oldest living United States Marine.

"Caroline and I are grateful for Roy's friendship and for the example he set during a life that spanned more than a century. We are praying for the Drinkard family and for the many people across Alabama who are mourning his loss.

"Roy, while we are sad at your passing, we take comfort in knowing you are now celebrating in the presence of the Lord. You lived a life of service to your country, your community and your fellow man, and you will be greatly missed."