For the first time, Karlan Larson and his daughter Michaela returned to Normandy for the D-Day commemoration without the man who had made the journey so meaningful, Karlan’s father, WWII Veteran “Papa” Jake Larson who passed away in July 2025 at the age of 102.
The Larsons walked in the parade with Michaela carrying her grandfather’s familiar hat, the one he wore for years. The light blue hat, covered with meaningful pins collected throughout his life, had become a symbol recognized by veterans, families, and admirers around the world.
“The people of France are so grateful and appreciative of the young men and women that helped liberate their country and free them of tyranny. That appreciation is passed down from generation to generation,” Karlan said. “And that thanks is so apparent during parades, during different interactions. The love they have for the World War II veterans, and in our case, the love that they showed for our family even though Papa Jake wasn’t there, it’s overwhelming.”
Papa Jake helped plan and fought during the storming of Omaha beach.
“As we walked in the parade behind the veterans, people would see the hat and shout out, “Papa Jake, Papa Jake!’ and then we would go over and greet them. We became so delayed in the progression of the parade; we actually got lost and had to catch up with the veterans.”
One little girl had a shirt on that had an image of her and Papa Jake together.
“We went up to them and spoke with them. I was doing okay up until the point until I noticed the little beret cap that she had on was signed by my dad.”
It was emotional overload. Before the parade even began, the family experienced another unforgettable connection. A lady approached them who spoke little English but looked somewhat familiar to the Karlan.
With a tap of the hat, she asked, “Papa Family?” Once they acknowledged, she introduced herself as Fabienne Ory. Then she reached in her bag and pulled out three prior copies of Diablo Gazette.
“That’s why she looked familiar,” Karlan said. “Her picture was in those issues with my dad. And suddenly, here she was standing in front of us. It felt like a reunion with someone we had never met face-to-face.
It was very joyful, and there were some tears on both sides. Then she reached into her bag and opened pulled the August 2025 edition which announced Jake’s passing last July.
In a crowd of tens of thousands, Ory had brought the newspapers hoping she would find the Larson family. Thanks to Papa Jake’s hat, she did.
The artist for the statue, Paula Slater, will include the hat and every pin. the bronze statue from his hat.
Karlan swore to the French that they would return next year except on June 6, D-Day, for the unveiling of the Papa Jake’s statue.
A miniature clay model, called a maquette, has been approved by City of Martinez and the Larsons. Artist Paula Slater, who is creating Papa Jake’s life-size bronze statue planned for Martinez City Hall, will include the details of his beloved hat, including every pin.
The Larsons and the City of Martinez have approved the miniature clay model, called a maquette, and said the project is moving forward. The remaining work is completing the sculpture and continuing fundraising efforts.
The community can show its love for Papa Jake and help preserve his legacy by purchasing an engraved brick or tile that will be displayed at the base of his monument. More information is available at papajakelarson.com.
“He is no longer with us physically, he is he is definitely here in spirit, and he watches over us every day, “ Karlan says.
