After turning 110 on Feb. 1, Frank Buckles passed away this past Sunday. He served as a U.S. Army ambulance driver in Europe during what became known as the "Great War," and rose to the rank of corporal before the war ended. His fame came about at first because of a man who took a survey and interviewed the last men standing from WWI. However, over the years all but Frank Buckles passed away, leaving him the famous last standing veteran.
Yet, Buckles became truly famous when he was asked to testify in Congress. His mission was to see to it that his comrades were honored with a monument on the National Mall, alongside memorials for veterans of World War II and the conflicts in Korea and Vietnam. He testified before a House committee on Dec. 3, 2009.
During WWII, Buckles was a ship's officer on merchant vessels. He was captured by the Japanese and held captive for over three years, when he was finally rescued by fellow U.S. troops.
Fulfilling his dream, renovations began on the WWII memoral in Washington D.C. this past fall. His health, however, prevented him from visiting the site and reviewing the improvements. More information on Buckles and his ideas can be found at http://www.frankbuckles.org/.
By: Becky welc
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