Lawrence Brooks, who was the United States’ oldest World War II veteran, passed away at the age of 112, according to WSB-TV. 

His daughter and caregiver Vanessa Brooks reported his death and said to the Military Times that although the veteran had been in and out of the hospital in recent months, he was alert for the holidays and enjoyed the season. 

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“The National WWII Museum is deeply saddened by the loss of beloved WWII veteran Mr. Lawrence Brooks, who passed away this morning. At 112 years old, he was the oldest surviving WWII veteran in the country. More than that, he was a dear friend, who celebrated his birthday with us every year starting in 2014, when he was just a spry 105-year-old,” the National WWII Museum said on Instagram. “His consistent advice when asked for the secret behind his longevity was, ‘Serve God, and be nice to people.’ We are feeling his loss heavily today at the Museum, and we offer our condolences to his daughter Vanessa and his family.”⁠ 

Brooks was born on Sept. 12, 1909, in Norwood, Louisiana, as he was one of 15 children. At age 31, he was drafted into the army and spent World War II in the 91st Engineer Battalion, according to WSB-TV. 

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“The Board of Trustees, staff and volunteers at The National WWII Museum will forever cherish the memories we shared with Lawrence Brooks,” Stephen J. Watson, museum president & CEO, said in a statement. “He was a beloved friend, a man of great faith and had a gentle spirit that inspired those around him.”