• D-Day veteran Jake "Papa Jake" Larson has died at age 102.
• Known for his TikTok account, he shared stories of World War II with 1.2 million followers.
• Tributes have been paid across the United States and in Normandy, honoring his legacy.

D-Day veteran Jake Larson, fondly known as "Papa Jake," passed away at the age of 102. Larson was a part of the Allied troops who bravely landed on Normandy's shores on June 6, 1944, surviving the harrowing experience amid German gunfire. In his later years, he became a social media sensation with 1.2 million followers on TikTok, where he shared stories celebrating World War II and his fellow soldiers. His granddaughter, McKaela Larson, announced his passing on July 17, stating he "went peacefully and was even cracking jokes 'til the very end," according to BBC and CBS News.

Born on December 20, 1922, Larson enlisted in the National Guard at just 15 years old, and by 1942, he was stationed in Northern Ireland. His military service included not just the D-Day invasion but also pivotal battles such as the Battle of the Bulge, which played a critical role in the defeat of Nazi Germany. He earned a Bronze Star and France's Legion of Honor for his valor in combat, according to India Times.

Larson's impact extended beyond the battlefield; his popularity surged on social media, where he frequently engaged with followers and shared touching anecdotes from his life. Just weeks before his death, he co-won an Emmy Award for an interview marking the 80th anniversary of D-Day. In his heartfelt communications, Larson often expressed gratitude for his experiences, stating, "We are the lucky ones," reflecting on the sacrifices of those who fell at Normandy, as noted by CBS News and India Times.

Paying tribute to him, several communities have taken to social media to honor Larson's legacy. The Overlord Museum in Normandy praised him as an "exceptional witness and bearer of memory," emphasizing how he touched the lives of many with his warm personality and engaging storytelling. As his granddaughter vowed to continue sharing his stories, messages of condolences and admiration flooded his TikTok account from fans across the United States and beyond, highlighting the deep connections he forged through his humorous yet poignant narratives, according to BBC, CBS News, and India Times.