Jake Larson, a celebrated World War II veteran and social media personality known as “Papa Jake,” passed away on July 17, 2023, at the age of 102. His granddaughter, McKaela Larson, announced his death on social media, stating he “went peacefully” and remained in good spirits, “cracking jokes til the very end.”
A member of the “Greatest Generation,” Larson garnered a dedicated following on TikTok, where he shared stories from his remarkable life under the handle @storytimewithpapajake. He amassed over 1 million followers, captivating audiences with anecdotes from his military service and personal experiences.
Legacy of a Hero
Larson’s legacy extends beyond social media. He was interviewed by renowned journalist Christiane Amanpour in June 2024, during the 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasion in Normandy, France. Sitting in his wheelchair near the historic shoreline, he recalled the harrowing events of that day, stating, “I got off the landing craft and had water right up to my chin. We were all kids.”
At just 15 years old, Larson enlisted in the National Guard, falsely claiming an older age. Reflecting on his service, he expressed humility, saying, “I don’t think I was a hero. I was just like anybody else. We were all in this together.” He emphasized his commitment to honor the memories of friends who lost their lives during the pivotal invasion that shifted the course of the war.
When asked whether soldiers understood the stakes of their fight, Larson confidently replied, “Oh, definitely. That we knew. Every one of us was prepared to give our life to kick Hitler’s ass out of Europe. … And we did.”
A Life Celebrated
Just weeks prior to his passing, Amanpour received an Emmy Award for her interview with Larson, an achievement she celebrated alongside him. In a video message to Amanpour, he expressed his astonishment: “It’s phenomenal. Here I am, little country boy that joins the infantry at 15 years old and I come here now, 102, going on 103 and I’m winning something like this? There is a God.”
His son, Karlan Larson, described his father’s life as “epic,” sharing that the Emmy award is proudly displayed in their home. He noted plans for the award to be passed down through the family, stating, “The grandkids will have to figure out a schedule.”
Jake Larson’s contributions to history and his ability to connect with younger generations through social media have left a lasting impact. As tributes pour in, the legacy of “Papa Jake” will undoubtedly continue to inspire many.
