The Hill News

President Obama and Vice President Biden on Tuesday paid their respects to Frank Buckles, America's last World War I veteran who passed away last month at the age of 110. 

Obama and Biden made the unscheduled but short trip to Arlington National Cemetery in the afternoon, visiting the Amphitheater Chapel where Buckles's casket was on display. According to a White House pool report, the duo also spoke with members of Buckles's family before returning to the White House. 

Buckles is scheduled to be buried with full military honors at 4 p.m.

Members of Buckles's family and some lawmakers had asked congressional leaders to let his casket lie in repose in the Capitol rotunda, Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) did not grant their request.

The rare honor has been reserved mainly for presidents, senators and generals. Buckles left the Army as a corporal.