D-Day veteran, TikTok star ‘Papa Jake’ Larson dies at 102

Remembered for his convivial persona and prolific tales about his service throughout World Battle II, which introduced him fame on TikTok, Lafayette resident “Papa Jake” Larson died on the age of 102 on Thursday.

“Our beloved Papa Jake has passed away,” his granddaughter McKaela Larson posted on his social media accounts. “I am so thankful to have shared my Papa Jake with you all. You meant the world to him.”

Born on Dec. 20, 1922, Larson got here of age simply weeks after Imperial Japan attacked the U.S. Naval base of Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. Larson joined the navy and served within the Western Theater of Europe throughout World Battle II, finally storming the seashores of Normandy, France on D-Day, the biggest naval, air and land operation in historical past on the time.

Larson’s service earned him a Bronze Star and a French Legion of Honour award, medals that he wore on the crown of a grey bowler hat which was ubiquitous in his TikTok movies.

Many cities round Normandy, which proceed to be glad about the sacrifice of Allied forces to defeat the Nazis in occupied France throughout World Battle II, additionally mourned the lack of the D-Day veteran on-line, in response to the Related Press.

Larson finally moved to Mt. Diablo Boulevard in Lafayette, California, the place he began posting TikTok movies – as a part of what he known as “story time” – about his battle towards the fascist forces of Europe throughout World Battle II. His tales about evading German gunfire amassed Larson greater than 1.2 million followers who admired his bravery throughout the battle, his unwavering kindness, and his straightforward smile.

In February, Larson walked his granddaughter down the aisle for her marriage ceremony. He wore his signature bowler all through the ceremony.

“When the time is right, I will continue to share Papa Jake’s stories and keep his memory alive,” McKaela Larson wrote. “As Papa would say love you all the mostest.”