[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 97 (Friday, June 6, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E538-E539]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING THE SERVICE OF JAKE LARSON

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. MARK DeSAULNIER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, June 6, 2025

  Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor World War II 
veteran and D-Day survivor, ``Papa'' Jake Larson, for his invaluable 
contributions to our nation.
  Eager to serve his country, Jake enlisted in the National Guard at 
just 15 years old after lying about his age. After the attack on Pearl 
Harbor in December, 1941, Jake was sent to Fort Dix, New Jersey before 
heading overseas to Europe. He advanced to the position of Operations 
Sergeant where he assisted in planning the invasion of Normandy in 
Operation

[[Page E539]]

Overlord. In 1944, Jake arrived on the shores of Omaha Beach carrying 
74 pounds of gear and narrowly surviving what was at the time the 
largest amphibious operation in history. He avoided gunfire and 
landmines, fighting the German Nazi forces and helping to liberate 
France from Nazi control. Throughout his time in service, Jake bravely 
endured six battles, including the infamous Battle of the Bulge. The 
heroism and courage demonstrated by Jake and others were critical in 
defeating the Nazis and putting an end to the war.
  More recently, Jake Larson earned the nickname of ``Papa Jake'' from 
his online presence as a storyteller on TikTok and Instagram. Online, 
Papa Jake shares details of his time in the U.S. Army, teaching 
audiences about our nation's history and reminding us of the sacrifices 
that have been made to protect our freedom. Jake has amassed over 1.3 
million followers on social media and his stories have touched 
countless lives.
  As we commemorate the 81st anniversary of D-Day, I'd like to extend 
my gratitude and respect to Jake for his extraordinary bravery. Please 
join me in recognizing ``Papa'' Jake Larson for his dedicated service 
to our country.

                          ____________________