Cigarettes, whisky and wild women key to world's oldest man's longevity

The world's oldest man celebrated his 114th birthday Tuesday in his retirement home in Great Falls, Montana.

Walter Breuning, born Sept. 21, 1896 in Melrose, Minn. Breuning attributes his unusual longevity to "cigarettes, whisky and wild, wild women -- and a good sense of humor," according to Guinness World Records, reports the Discovery.

For 50 years, Breuning worked as a clerk for the Great Northern Railway in Montana. His wife, Agnes, also worked on the railroads. They were together until her death in 1957. The couple had no children.

Although Breuning may be the world's oldest man, three women were actually born earlier, making him the world's fourth oldest person.

Breuning used the occasion to impart a little of the wisdom he has accumulated over the years in a speech to an invitation-only crowd of 100 attendees. The 114-year-old discussed his life and his beliefs, and advocated a message of tolerance.

Guests included Montana governor Brian Schweitzer as well as officials from the Guinness Book of World Records.