Oldest Living US Veteran Passes Away

Lawrence Brooks, the oldest living American veteran, passed away last Wednesday at the age of 112 following months of failing health. Brooks was drafted into the United States Army in 1940, completing his one year of mandatory service before he was discharged in 1941. However, he re-enlisted that same year following the attacks at PearlHarbor, serving until 1945 in the Pacific Theater while part of the (mostly) segregated 91st Engineer Battalion. During the war, Brooks took part in the supply line, construction, and maintenance operations while stationed in Australia, New Guinea, and the Philippines, reaching the rank of Private 1st Class. He was also a driver and personal cook for the officers of his unit.