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 1^st, Mr. Buckles’ 110^th 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 110^th Congress.