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Oldest WWII Veteran Dies in New Orleans

Lawrence Brooks, the nation's oldest living World War Two veteran, has died in New Orleans at the age of 112.

His daughter Vanessa Brooks says her dad had been in and out of the Veterans hospital there in recent months.

Lawrence Brooks served in the Army from 1940 to 1945, stationed in New Guinea and the Philippines.

Brooks was a member of the 91st Engineer Battalion, a unit comprised of almost 12-hundred Black enlisted soldiers. Like most in his Battalion, he never saw combat. Brooks was a driver, valet and cook for three officers, two lieutenants and a captain. He was a recipient of the Good Conduct Medal, Meritorious Service Medal and the Presidential Unit Medal.

The National World War II Museum released a statement saying it was "deeply saddened by the loss."

Brooks' 112th birthday was marked in September with a drive-by celebration at his home in New Orleans. He waved to well-wishers from his porch that day. He also shared some advice for the crowd, telling them to “serve God and be nice to people.”

WW II US Army Uniform with Medals

Photo: Getty Images


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