Jake Larson, a World War II veteran and social media star known as “Papa Jake,” has passed away at the age of 102. Larson’s granddaughter, McKaela Larson, announced his death on his social media accounts, saying he “went peacefully and was even cracking jokes till the very end.”
Larson gained a loyal following on TikTok, where he posted stories about his life and military service as @storytimewithpapajake, amassing over 1 million followers. He was interviewed by CNN’s Christiane Amanpour in Normandy, France, on the 80th anniversary of D-Day, where he shared his memories of the invasion. “I got off the landing craft and had water right up to my chin,” he said. “We were all kids.”
Larson enlisted in the National Guard at 15, lying about his age, and served during World War II. He told Amanpour that he wasn’t a hero, but was just like everyone else who served. “We were all in this together,” he said. Larson’s stories about his experiences during the war have inspired many, and his social media presence has brought attention to the sacrifices of the “Greatest Generation.”
Amanpour won an Emmy for her interview with Larson, which he reacted to with joy and humility. “It’s phenomenal. And 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,” he said. Larson’s legacy will live on through his stories and the impact he had on those who followed him on social media.
Jake Larson’s impact on social media extended beyond his own story, inspiring others to share their experiences and memories. His granddaughter, McKaela Larson, continued to share updates on his social media accounts, providing a glimpse into the life of a true American hero.
Larson’s conversation with CNN’s Christiane Amanpour, in which he shared his memories of D-Day, was widely acclaimed and earned him an Emmy Award. The award was a testament to his enduring legacy and the power of his story to inspire and educate others.