America’s oldest living World War II veteran has passed away.
Lawrence Brooks of New Orleans, La., died Wednesday at the age of 112, according to the National WWII Museum. Brooks joined the U.S. Army when he was drafted at 31 and was stationed in New Guinea and the Philippines during World War II as a member of the 91st Engineer Battalion, a unit that was predominantly African American.
In his post-war career, he spent 40 years as a forklift operator.
Brooks’s death drew lofty attention, including tweets from President Joe Biden and Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards.
The museum had hosted birthday parties for Brooks since 2014 and spoke admirably about his gracious nature and sense of humor.
“He was a beloved friend, a man of great faith, and had a gentle spirit that inspired those around him,” museum president and CEO Stephen Watson said. “His kindness, smile and sense of humor connected him to generations of people who loved and admired him.”
That statement was echoed by Peter Crean, the museum’ Vice President of Education and Access.
“Mr. Brooks was just such a gentle soul. He's such a wonderful man loved by everyone, he loved this city, loved the Saints, and loved this museum,” Crean told WWL-TV.
Of Brooks’s service to his country, Crean said, “The army was segregated at that time and his duties as a soldier were essentially to be an orderly for white officers. He did not let that pull him down.”
Brooks is survived by five children, 13 grandchildren and 32 great grandchildren. His wife Leona passed away in 2008.
“He had an incredible life," Crean said. "If you think of all the challenges Mr. Brooks had in 112 years, you'd think he had a chip on his shoulder, but that is not the case.”
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