🎖️ VALOR

Richard Overton: America’s Oldest WWII Veteran and a Life Spanning 112 Years 

Richard Arvin Overton was born in Bastrop County, TX, on May 11, 1906. He was raised in the Jim Crow South, where opportunities for Black families were limited and daily life demanded hard work and perseverance. From a young age, he labored on farms, gaining not only physical strength but also the values of resilience, faith, and self-reliance that would guide him for more than a century. Those early experiences shaped his outlook and prepared him for the challenges to come. 

In 1942, at the age of 36, Overton enlisted in the United States Army as the nation mobilized for World War II. He deployed to the Pacific Theater, where his unit took part in campaigns in Guam, Palau, and Iwo Jima.  

The 1887th Engineer Aviation Battalion was a segregated unit tasked with building and maintaining runways, airstrips, and supply routes in some of the war’s harshest environments. Their work was essential to keeping American aircraft and troops supplied as the fighting moved closer to Japan. 

In addition to construction duties, Overton and his fellow engineers pulled guard shifts and manned defensive positions, often under the threat of enemy fire.  

He remembered being close enough to see and hear the battles unfold, witnessing the devastation that came with some of the fiercest fighting in the Pacific. Despite the constant danger, he carried out his duties until the war’s end. 

When he returned home in 1945, Overton carried with him the experience of service in one of the most demanding theaters of World War II. 

He went on to build a quiet life in Austin, TX. He worked at furniture stores, the Texas Department of the Treasury, and later the Texas Department of Highways. Known for his humor, storytelling, and love of cigars, he became a fixture in his East Austin neighborhood, often seen sitting on his porch, greeting visitors. 

Overton gained national recognition as the oldest living World War II veteran in his later years. At age 107, he visited the White House in 2013, where then-President Barack Obama honored him. Years later, President Donald Trump also recognized his service and longevity. His hometown of Austin also paid tribute, renaming the street where he lived “Richard Overton Avenue” to celebrate his life and legacy. 

He lived independently until age 111, still enjoying cigars and whiskey daily. Richard Overton passed away peacefully on Dec. 27, 2018, at 112, the nation's oldest veteran, leaving behind an enduring example of dignity, service, and longevity.

Honor veterans like Richard Overton and watch more stories on our YouTube channel.

⚖️ EXPERTS

Understanding Your VA Rating Decision

A VA rating decision is one of the most important steps in the disability claims process. It explains whether your claim is approved or denied, your disability rating, and the effective date. Even if the outcome isn’t favorable, receiving a decision means your case is moving forward and you can plan your next steps. 

What the Rating Decision Includes 

• Introduction: Details about your service, branch, claim type, and claim background. 

• Decision: Approval or denial, the disability percentage, and the effective date. 

• Evidence: A list of the records and statements VA reviewed. 

• Reasons for Decision: Why the claim was granted or denied, with reference to the evidence used. 

• References: Citations to laws and regulations, plus your appeal rights. 

The decision packet includes an Award Letter, which sets the timeline for appeals. Veterans have one year from the date on the award Letter to file an appeal to the Regional Office or the Board of Veterans’ Appeals. While VA keeps a full rating code sheet showing the history of all claims, veterans only receive it if they specifically request it or a representative provides it to them.   

Award Letter and Rating Narrative 

The decision packet has two parts: the Award Letter and the Rating Narrative. The Award Letter sets the timeline for appeals and explains the outcome of your claim, including your disability compensation amount, rating, and any dependents. It is the equivalent of the Notice of Action (NOA).   

The second part, the Rating Narrative, introduces the claim, lists your service dates, and shows when the claim or appeal was filed. It details the decisions, the evidence VA reviewed, and the regulations applied. The narrative also explains why VA made its decision and includes any favorable findings, even if the claim was denied.   

Why Decision Letters Matter 

Every rating decision helps veterans understand how VA reviewed their claim, what evidence was considered, and why the decision was made. Having recent decision letters is essential when working with attorneys or representatives because they provide a full picture of your case and make it easier to build a strong appeal strategy. 

What to Take Away from a Rating Decision 

A VA rating decision is more than just an approval or denial. It’s a roadmap for your benefits and your next move. Reading it carefully, verifying all evidence was considered, and keeping copies for future use are critical steps in protecting your earned benefits.

If you’re facing challenges with your claim and need assistance, reach out for a free case evaluation.

🦅SUPPORT

Attention: Join us every Tuesday at 1400 hours EST for a new Livestream with our legal team!

Join us to get your questions about VA disability law and the claims process answered by our legal team. Comments open 1 hour prior to the Livestream starting, so get there early to get your question in. We try to answer as many as we can!

Were You Exposed to Asbestos During Military Service?

Many U.S. veterans were exposed to asbestos during their time in service, often without knowing the risks. Years later, this exposure has led to mesothelioma and other asbestos-related lung cancers for countless veterans.

If you served in the military and have been diagnosed, you may qualify for compensation. Our firm proudly helps veterans and their families pursue the benefits and justice they deserve.

Act now. Contact us today at (855) 494-1298 to learn more about your options or to begin your claim. You’ve served your country; let us serve you.

🗺️ TACTICS

Making Sense of VA Letters with Hill & Ponton Attorneys Stacey Clark and Allison Reddick 

The video, led by Hill & Ponton attorneys Stacey Clark and Allison Reddick, explains veterans' challenges when responding to VA letters. Some notices include a deadline, often around 30 days for medical records or VA forms. However, missing that deadline doesn't automatically mean the evidence won't be reviewed if a decision is still pending. 

Attorney Clark and Attorney Reddick note that VA letters are often vague, repetitive, or request documents already submitted, creating confusion for veterans, particularly those without representation. They recommend always responding, even if it's only to say no new evidence is available, since this can prompt the VA to move forward with a decision instead of waiting indefinitely. 

The attorneys also highlight that VA errors, such as mislabeled forms or unnecessary notices, are common and can further delay cases. Because of this, Attorney Clark and Attorney Reddick emphasize the importance of seeking professional help to interpret letters, track deadlines, and navigate appeals correctly. 

The key takeaway is that veterans should read VA correspondence carefully, respond promptly, and rely on expert guidance to avoid unnecessary delays and improve their chances of a favorable outcome. 

Need Help with an Appeal? Hill & Ponton is Here for You

At Hill & Ponton, we specialize in helping veterans navigate the VA appeals process to secure the benefits they rightfully deserve. Whether you're facing a denied claim, an appeal for a higher rating, or need assistance gathering critical evidence, our team is ready to advocate for you.

Use our VA Disability Calculator to see if your current rating aligns with your level of disability and explore potential increases based on any secondary conditions you may have. Calculate Your VA Disability Rating Now!