How old is too old for a bodyguard?

Billy Smith is Coach Bobby Bowden's bodyguard. Billy Smith is younger than coach Bowden. Billy is 78 and the coach is 80 years old. Billy is a retired State Trooper, having joined more than a half century ago.

Mike Casazza of the Daily Mail produces a feel good type of story, but one wonders just how capable a bodyguard Mr. Smith can be at nearly eighty years of age. Guys half his age will often ask; "am I too old to be an E.P. Agent?"

I am not entirely sold on the idea of still working details at such an advanced age, but it does show you what can be achieved if you take care of yourself, both physically and mentally.

Of course we would be remiss if we didn't recognize the fact that Billy Smith has been working for zero salary for the past 34 years. If they were paying for the protection, I'd have to believe that they would have somebody much younger in the position.

I think there is a very good chance that Mr. Smith could qualify for the Guinness Book of Records. Amazingly, he is not yet ready to step down and is considering the possibility of working for the new coach when Coach Bowden retires next year.

In another interview, he spoke of keeping his options open!