Lawrence Brooks was the oldest known living US World War II veteran.
- Died: Tuesday, January 4, 2021. (Who else died on January 4?)
- Details of death: Died at the age of 112 at his home in New Orleans, Louisiana.
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World War II
Lawrence Brooks was a Louisiana native working in a sawmill when he was drafted in 1940. After completing his one year of Army service, he returned to work in New Orleans but was quickly called back by the Army after Pearl Harbor. He served at a time when the military was segregated and was a member of the mostly black 91st Engineer Battalion. His unit was based in Australia where they built bridges, roads, and airstrips. They also traveled to Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, and various Pacific islands to build hospitals, housing, and shops. He received many medals for his service in World War II. The National World War II Museum hosted a drive-by celebration for his 112th birthday in September with a jeep parade and entertainment from New Orleans based musicians.
Notable Quote
“They were nice people, the Australians.” “They were wonderful.” “I had a lady friend there; she had a hotel and a bar, I used to go to her father’s place [house] and helped deliver liquor to the hotel.” “That’s what I didn’t understand.” “The Australians treated us like our own people treated us.” – Brooks reminiscing in an interview in 2021 with Military Times about Australia’s acceptance of black soldiers at a time when they were treated differently back home
Tributes to Lawrence Brooks
Full Obituary: New Orleans Advocate
