WWI vet shares stories with Bush

Calling it a high honor, President Bush warmly greeted 107-year-old Frank Woodruff Buckles, described by the White House as the last known surviving American-born veteran of World War I.

“Mr. Buckles’ mind is sharp, his memory is crisp, and he’s been sharing with me some interesting anecdotes,” Bush said in the Oval Office. Buckles sat quietly with his hands clasped as the president spoke during a short photo opportunity.

Bush said that before reporters came into the room, Buckles had recalled chatting with Gen. John J. Pershing, a legendary figure from World War I. Buckles, a resident of Charles Town, W.Va., was born in 1901.

“Mr. Buckles has a vivid recollection of historic times,” Bush said.