Tributes Pour In for WWII Veteran and TikTok Sensation 'Papa' Jake Larson, 102

Jake 'Papa' Larson, a 102-year-old World War Two veteran and beloved TikTok star, passed away on July 17th, prompting an outpouring of tributes across various platforms.

Jake 'Papa' Larson, an American World War Two veteran, has sadly passed away at the age of 102. Known for his contributions during D-Day in 1944, where he bravely fought against Nazi forces, Papa Jake captured the hearts of many not only through his wartime efforts but also as a social media personality on TikTok.

With over 1.2 million followers, Larson's TikTok account became a platform for him to share poignant stories honoring his fallen comrades and educate younger generations about the realities of war. His granddaughter, McKaela Larson, confirmed his passing while sharing that he maintained his humorous spirit until the very end. In a heartfelt message on TikTok, she expressed gratitude for the support he received online, stating, "I am so thankful to have shared my Papa Jake with you all. You meant the world to him."

Recently, Larson was honored with an Emmy Award alongside British-Iranian journalist Christiane Amanpour for their collaborative piece commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Before finding brilliance in social media, he served in critical battles, including the Battle of the Bulge, contributing immensely to the Allied forces' efforts. At just 19, he was stationed in Northern Ireland before making his way to the famed beaches of Normandy.

In tribute to his legacy, McKaela Larson vowed to keep her grandfather's stories alive, continuing the mission that became so vital to him, even stating, “As Papa would say, love you all the mostest.”