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102-Year-Old WWII Veteran’s TikTok Reflection on Freedom Goes Viral on July 4

His viral TikTok message recalls his underage enlistment at 15 during the Depression to honor fallen comrades

Jake Larson, AKA Papa Jake, served in the US Army during the Second World War. He is 102 years old now.
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veteran Fourth of July

Overview

  • Larson’s heartfelt Independence Day reflection on America’s freedoms went viral on TikTok within hours of posting on July 4.
  • At 102, Larson is one of roughly 66,143 surviving U.S. World War II veterans, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
  • He first enlisted in the National Guard in 1938 at age 15 by lying about his age, reflecting his early commitment to service.
  • During D-Day in 1944, Larson braved waist-level waves and heavy fire at Omaha Beach and was later put in charge of beach operations that night.
  • His message weaves together Depression-era farm hardships, wartime resilience and lasting gratitude for comrades who paid the ultimate sacrifice.