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Last Canadian First World War veteran turns 107
Broadcast Date: July 23, 2007
Jack Babcock is Canada's last living First World War veteran. He was just a young boy of 15 when he enlisted. He had to lie about his age in order to do so. And although Babcock never actually saw combat, he nevertheless has some fascinating tales to tell about his time overseas with a "wild bunch of kids from the colonies." In this 2007 CBC-TV report, we learn more about Babcock's long life and wartime experiences as the veteran celebrates his 107th birthday.Last Canadian First World War veteran turns 107
• John Henry Foster "Jack" Babcock was born on July 23, 1900 in Frontenac County, Ont.• After the war, Babcock moved to the U.S. in the 1920s and became a naturalized American citizen. There was no such thing as Canadian citizenship prior to 1947 - up until then, Canadians were just considered British subjects living in Canada. So in 2008, Babcock sought out Canadian citizenship and officially became a Canadian citizen at a special ceremony in his living room in Spokane, Wash.
• Babcock died in February 2010 at the age of 109.
Last Canadian First World War veteran turns 107
Medium: Television
Program: The National
Broadcast Date: July 23, 2007
Guest(s): Jack Babcock, Vincent Babcock
Host: Peter Mansbridge
Duration: 4:31
Last updated:
Nov. 10, 2011
It's sad to hear that he's died. Also interesting though, that he was such a (relatively) young veteran, since he signed up at 15. I'm consistently amazed by the attitude that led men to WANT to go to war. I respect our veterans but am still amazed by how stupid some were in the youth.
Submitted by: Scudworth