Vestavia Hills’ Carl Cooper just turned 100-years-young this week, and this heroic World War II veteran has provided a roadmap for others to follow in seeking a long, rewarding life.
Cooper, a native of Chilton County who also served in the Korean and Vietnam Wars, visited with WVTM’s Rick Karle, who originally reported this story.
A retired colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps, Cooper helped raise the flag in Okinawa, Japan; now, Karle reported, Cooper still raises the American flag and the Marine Corps flag every day at his Alabama home, proudly saluting them afterwards.
A Purple Heart and Legion of Merit recipient, among several other medals, Cooper continued a life of service after retiring from the military. He had a long career as an educator and football coach. While he quipped that he is not quite in football shape like he used to be, Cooper noted that he feels “great.”
One key to his longevity and spryness? “Yard work,” Karle advised.
Cooper still mows his own lawn and trims his shrubs. He also maintains two rows of vegetables in his backyard.
A healthy lifestyle, both physically and spiritually, have also contributed, Cooper outlined.
“I don’t drink, I don’t smoke. And the rest of it — I trust in the good Lord, help my fellow man as much as I can,” he said.
Watch the full feature:
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Sean Ross is the editor of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @sean_yhn
