Frank Woodruff Buckles, the last known American World War I Veteran was laid to rest yesterday with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery. With his passing, the country’s last personal connection to the 4,734,990 Americans who served during World War I now resides in Section 34 surrounded by his fellow Veterans.

Buckles—who had served in both France and Germany after enlisting in 1917—passed away on February 27, 2011 at his home in West Virginia at the age of 110.

In the late afternoon ceremony two weeks later, Army Corporal Frank Buckles was transported to Section 34 by a horse drawn caisson to be buried before his family and friends, members of Congress, fellow service members, Veterans, and the public. Young children dressed in military garb crouched under bushes to get one last look at Buckles’ flag-draped coffin; frail men and women stood graciously as the firing of volley shots rang through the crisp air; taps echoed throughout the cemetery as we all paid our respect to America’s last doughboy.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs salutes Buckles for his valor and service. As his passing marks the end of our Nation’s personal link to World War I, may we not forget the sacrifices he made and those who served alongside him. May he rest in peace.

I had the honor of capturing Frank Buckles being laid to rest. Below are photographs from yesterday’s graveside ceremony.

Topics in this story

HistoryHonoring VetsMemorial AffairsWWI

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7 Comments

  1. Hooter April 28, 2011 at 23:59

    Reading on Mr. Buckles I came across the American Legion and they still have their Paris post FR01, the city of Paris provides them with an apartment space to the post, after they lost their home thanks to the VA tossing them out Pershing Hall and on the street … Nice to see the French still remember and honor our boys from both world wars.

    Mr. Buckles hoped some day this nation will build a world war I memorial for those 4,734,990 Americans service in the Great War..

  2. Chris Scheer March 21, 2011 at 20:15

    Thanks for recognizing this great Veteran who deeply appreciated the care he received from VA. Now let’s support his efforts to create a national memorial on the National Mall in Washington, DC for the millions of U.S. veterans of World War I. Check out the World War I National Memorial Foundation which Mr. Buckles chaired until his death at http://www.wwimemorial.org/ .

  3. Dan milligan (CW04 RET) March 21, 2011 at 15:16

    To this brave soldiers family he is remembered and honored. Both of my grandfathers served in WW1 so this takes my thoughts to them as well. Thank you brave warrior rest in peace with your brothers in arms.

  4. Shannon McFarland March 21, 2011 at 12:30

    It was just an honor to read the multiple articles about him. I am in the Army and just knowing the history is AWESOME….RIP CPL BUCKLES You are LOVED!!!

  5. Mathes, R. PO1, USA March 17, 2011 at 15:58

    I will honor those who have gone before me to defend freedom and democracy around the world. Thank you Frank may god keep you near his side.

  6. Lynnie March 17, 2011 at 15:54

    Thank you Mr. Frank Buckles for your service. Rest in Peace. Your service and those of your brethren (current enlisted men and women) is greatly appreciated. God Bless.

  7. Carl R. Angdahl MSG, USA Ret March 17, 2011 at 13:22

    Thank you for sharing the wonderful tribute. May God be forever with Frank.

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