Calling it a high honor, President Bush on Thursday warmly greeted 107-year-old Frank Woodruff Buckles, described by the White House as the last known surviving U.S.- born World War I veteran.
“Mr. Buckles’ mind is sharp, his memory is crisp, and he’s been sharing with me some interesting anecdotes,” Bush said in the Oval Office.
Buckles sat quietly with his hands clasped as the president spoke. Bush said Buckles had recalled chatting with Gen. John Pershing, a legendary WWI figure.
Born in 1901 and eager to get in the Army in 1917, Buckles lied to a recruiter about his age and enlisted at the start of the U.S. involvement in the war. He served in the U.S., Britain, Germany and France. By 1920, he was discharged with the rank of corporal.
“One way for me to honor the service of those who wear the uniform in the past and those who wear it today is to herald you, sir, and to thank you very much for your patriotism and your love for America,” Bush said.
