D-Day Veteran and TikTok Sensation 'Papa Jake' Larson Dies at 102
Published 20 July 2025
Highlights
- Jake Larson, a World War Two veteran and TikTok star known as 'Papa Jake', passed away at 102 on July 17, 2023.
- Larson was celebrated for his participation in the D-Day landings and the Battle of the Bulge, earning a Bronze Star and French Legion of Honour.
- He gained 1.2 million TikTok followers by sharing war stories and was recently awarded an Emmy for an interview with Christiane Amanpour.
- Tributes poured in from around the world, with his granddaughter McKaela Larson vowing to continue sharing his stories.
- Larson's message to world leaders was to "make peace not war," reflecting his lifelong commitment to honoring his fallen comrades.
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Rewritten Article
D-Day Veteran and TikTok Sensation 'Papa Jake' Larson Dies at 102
Jake Larson, affectionately known as 'Papa Jake', a World War Two veteran and social media influencer, has died at the age of 102. Larson, who passed away peacefully on July 17, 2023, was renowned for his service during the D-Day landings and his later life as a TikTok star, where he amassed 1.2 million followers by sharing poignant war stories.
Born on December 20, 1922, in Owatonna, Minnesota, Larson enlisted in the National Guard at just 15 by lying about his age. He was deployed overseas in 1942, where he played a pivotal role in the planning and execution of the Normandy landings on June 6, 1944. Surviving the fierce gunfire on Omaha Beach, he later participated in the Battle of the Bulge, earning both a Bronze Star and the French Legion of Honour for his bravery.
In recent years, Larson became a beloved figure on TikTok, where his account, Storytime with Papa Jake, captivated audiences with tales of heroism and humor. His granddaughter, McKaela Larson, announced his passing on social media, expressing gratitude for the love and support shown to her grandfather. "As Papa would say, love you all the mostest," she wrote, promising to keep his memory alive by continuing to share his stories.
Larson's influence extended beyond social media. Just three weeks before his death, he co-won an Emmy Award with journalist Christiane Amanpour for an interview commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day. His legacy is further honored by towns in Normandy, which continue to pay tribute to the Allied forces.
Reflecting on his experiences, Larson often remarked, "We are the lucky ones," emphasizing the importance of remembering those who sacrificed their lives. In a message to world leaders, he urged, "Make peace not war," a sentiment that resonated deeply with his followers.
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Scenario Analysis
The passing of Jake Larson marks the end of an era, but his legacy continues to inspire. As his granddaughter McKaela carries on sharing his stories, there is potential for increased awareness and education about World War Two's historical significance, particularly among younger generations engaged on platforms like TikTok.
Larson's life and message of peace may also influence current discussions on global conflicts, encouraging leaders to reflect on the lessons of the past. His story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom and the ongoing responsibility to honor those who fought for it.
Jake Larson, affectionately known as 'Papa Jake', a World War Two veteran and social media influencer, has died at the age of 102. Larson, who passed away peacefully on July 17, 2023, was renowned for his service during the D-Day landings and his later life as a TikTok star, where he amassed 1.2 million followers by sharing poignant war stories.
Born on December 20, 1922, in Owatonna, Minnesota, Larson enlisted in the National Guard at just 15 by lying about his age. He was deployed overseas in 1942, where he played a pivotal role in the planning and execution of the Normandy landings on June 6, 1944. Surviving the fierce gunfire on Omaha Beach, he later participated in the Battle of the Bulge, earning both a Bronze Star and the French Legion of Honour for his bravery.
In recent years, Larson became a beloved figure on TikTok, where his account, Storytime with Papa Jake, captivated audiences with tales of heroism and humor. His granddaughter, McKaela Larson, announced his passing on social media, expressing gratitude for the love and support shown to her grandfather. "As Papa would say, love you all the mostest," she wrote, promising to keep his memory alive by continuing to share his stories.
Larson's influence extended beyond social media. Just three weeks before his death, he co-won an Emmy Award with journalist Christiane Amanpour for an interview commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day. His legacy is further honored by towns in Normandy, which continue to pay tribute to the Allied forces.
Reflecting on his experiences, Larson often remarked, "We are the lucky ones," emphasizing the importance of remembering those who sacrificed their lives. In a message to world leaders, he urged, "Make peace not war," a sentiment that resonated deeply with his followers.
What this might mean
The passing of Jake Larson marks the end of an era, but his legacy continues to inspire. As his granddaughter McKaela carries on sharing his stories, there is potential for increased awareness and education about World War Two's historical significance, particularly among younger generations engaged on platforms like TikTok.
Larson's life and message of peace may also influence current discussions on global conflicts, encouraging leaders to reflect on the lessons of the past. His story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom and the ongoing responsibility to honor those who fought for it.
