Are There Any Veterans of WW1 Still Alive?
As the world marks the centennial anniversary of the end of World War I, a question that has been on everyone’s mind is: are there any veterans of WW1 still alive? The answer is a resounding YES.
The Last WW1 Veteran
As of August 2020, the last known living veteran of WW1 was Florence Green, a British veteran who served in the Women’s Royal Air Force (WRAF). She passed away on February 4, 2012, at the age of 110. Green enlisted in the WRAF in 1918, at the age of 17, and served as a waitress and a messenger.
The Search for Remaining Veterans
However, it’s not just Florence Green who is notable. In recent years, researchers have been working tirelessly to track down and identify the last remaining WW1 veterans. In 2019, a team of researchers from the University of Western Australia identified Eliyahu David Rozen, a 112-year-old Israeli veteran, as one of the last living veterans of WW1. Rozen served in the Ottoman Empire during the war.
Countries with Living WW1 Veterans
Here is a list of countries with known living WW1 veterans as of August 2020:
| Country | Number of Living Veterans |
|---|---|
| Australia | 3 |
| Canada | 1 |
| France | 2 |
| Germany | 1 |
| Israel | 1 |
| Italy | 1 |
| New Zealand | 1 |
| Poland | 1 |
| United Kingdom | 0 (Florence Green passed away in 2012) |
| United States | 0 (no known living veterans) |
Challenges in Identifying Remaining Veterans
Identifying the last remaining WW1 veterans is no easy task. Many veterans were born in the late 1800s, and records from that time period are often incomplete or difficult to access. Additionally, many veterans have passed away without leaving behind family members or records to aid in their identification.
Preserving the Legacy of WW1 Veterans
Despite the challenges, researchers and historians are working hard to preserve the legacy of WW1 veterans. In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in the war and its veterans, with many countries establishing memorials and museums to honor their service.
Impact of WW1 on the World
WW1 was a global conflict that lasted from 1914 to 1918, involving more than 30 countries and resulting in the loss of millions of lives. The war had a profound impact on the world, leading to the rise of new world powers, the fall of empires, and the establishment of the League of Nations.
Lessons Learned from WW1
The war also taught us valuable lessons about the importance of diplomacy, international cooperation, and the devastating consequences of war. The war also led to significant advancements in medicine, technology, and social welfare.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Florence Green was the last known living veteran of WW1, there are still a few remaining veterans alive today. Their stories and experiences are a reminder of the sacrifices made during the war and the importance of preserving our history. As we mark the centennial anniversary of the end of WW1, we honor the memories of all those who served and paid the ultimate sacrifice.
