Frank Woodruff Buckles, the last known surviving American World War I veteran, has died. Buckles died, reportedly of natural causes, on Feb. 27 at his home in Charles Town, W.V., at age 110. “We have lost a living link to an important era in our nation’s history,” said Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki. Born in Bethany, Mo., Buckles enlisted in the Army in 1917. He drove an ambulance during the conflict, rising to the rank of corporal before his discharge in 1920. In his later years, Buckles dedicated himself to the establishment of a national memorial honoring World War I veterans. President Obama said Buckles led “a remarkable life” that “reminds us of the true meaning of patriotism and our obligations to each other as Americans.” Buckles’ burial, with full military honors, will be held at Arlington National Cemetery. More than 4,700,000 Americans served in the US military during World War I. (White House statement) (DOD release) (Army release) (See AFPS report by Fred W. Baker)
CMSAF Flosi Says He Will Retire
Oct. 14, 2025
Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force David A. Flosi is retiring following the unexpected death of his wife Katy last month, he announced in an email to the force Oct. 13.