Last surviving American doughboy of World War I, symbolizing the end of an era and a connection to a pivotal moment in history.
As the last surviving American military veteran of World War I, Frank Buckles led a life that spanned two centuries, witnessing the dawn of the 20th century and its tumultuous journey through two global conflicts. His remarkable story serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the brave men and women who fought for their countries, and his legacy continues to inspire generations today.
On February 1, 1901, Frank Woodruff Buckles was born in Bethany, Missouri, to James Clark Buckles and Theresa J. Buckles ne Keown. Growing up on a farm, Buckles enlisted in the U.S. Army at the tender age of 16, eager to contribute to the war effort. He became a corporal and served with a detachment from Fort Riley, driving ambulances and motorcycles near the front lines in Europe.
During World War I, Buckles saw action in the trenches, where he was exposed to the harsh realities of war. In the aftermath of the conflict, he was awarded the World War I Victory Medal. Little did he know that his experiences in the war would be merely a prelude to the trials that lay ahead.
During World War II, Buckles found himself in the midst of another conflict. While working in the shipping business, he was captured by Japanese forces and spent three grueling years as a civilian prisoner in the Philippines. It was a period that tested his resilience and resolve, but he emerged stronger and more determined to contribute to his nation's cause.
After the war, Buckles married in San Francisco and settled in West Virginia, where he worked on his farm until the age of 105. As a widower at 98, he continued to work on his farm, a testament to his unwavering spirit and dedication to the land.
In his later years, Buckles became the honorary chairman of the World War I Memorial Foundation, a role that enabled him to advocate for the establishment of a World War I memorial in Washington, D.C. He tirelessly campaigned for the District of Columbia War Memorial to be renamed the National World War I Memorial, and even testified before Congress in support of this cause.
Buckles received several accolades for his service and advocacy, including the French Legion of Honor in 1999. His funeral on March 15, 2011, at Arlington National Cemetery, was attended by President Barack Obama, who paid his respects to the last surviving veteran of the Great War.
Frank Buckles' remarkable life serves as a testament to the sacrifices made by generations past. As a symbol of the last remnant of a bygone era, his legacy inspires us to remember the past, honor the brave, and strive for a more peaceful future. His story is a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving our collective memory and ensuring that the sacrifices made by our veterans are never forgotten.
Frank Buckles' remarkable journey serves as a beacon of inspiration, a testament to the power of human resilience, and a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving our collective memory. His legacy will continue to inspire generations, reminding us of the sacrifices made by those who came before us and the importance of honoring their memories.
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A highly decorated war hero and master strategist who led troops to victory in World War I and II, and later became a prominent figure in the occupation of Japan.
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Born in 1886
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