Sen. Burr Statement on Passing of Frank Buckles, Nation’s Last Surviving World War I Veteran

Washington D.C – Senator Richard Burr (R-N.C.), Ranking Member of the
Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, today issued the following
statement on the passing of Mr. Frank Buckles, the last living American
World War I veteran.

“With the passing of Frank Buckles, our nation lost a true American
hero. He lived a life defined by hard work, love of country and a sense
of duty to his fellow citizens – the very same values that built America
into the country it is today. My condolences go out to Mr. Buckles’
family during this time of loss,” said Senator Richard Burr.

After enlisting at the age of 16, Mr. Buckles spent time on the RMS
Carpathia, driving ambulances and motorcycles in France and England, and
escorting prisoners of war back to Germany during World War I. He also
survived three and a half years as a prisoner of war in World War II
after he was captured in the Philipines while working for a shipping
company.

On February 1st, Mr. Buckles’ 110th birthday, Senator Burr co-sponsored a
resolution in his honor. The measure would authorize Mr. Buckles to lie
in honor in the Capitol Rotunda. Senator Burr was the original
co-sponsor of a similar resolution introduced in the 110th Congress.