“Today we mourn the loss of a true American hero, Staff Sergeant Jake Larson (Papa Jake), who passed away on July 17, 2025, at the age of 102. (...) Thank you for your service, your stories, and your infectious smile.”
Larson became widely known on TikTok for sharing firsthand accounts of battles he fought in during World War II and remembering his fallen comrades. His page attracted over 1.2 million followers, making him a beloved figure among younger audiences interested in military history.
Jake Larson was a participant in the D-Day Normandy landings and received the U.S. Bronze Star as well as France’s highest honor, the Legion of Honor, for his bravery and service during the war.
Born on December 20, 1922, in Owatonna, Minnesota, Larson enlisted in the U.S. National Guard in 1938, hiding the fact that he was only 15 years old at the time. In 1942, he was deployed to Northern Ireland as part of the American forces. Rising to the rank of Staff Sergeant, he was directly involved in the planning of the Normandy landing operation.
His digital storytelling in later life bridged generations, combining history and modern platforms to inspire millions worldwide.
