Vernon Baker

Vernon Baker
Author: U.S. Army soldier or employee, U.S. Federal Govt.
Born: 1919 in Wyoming
Died: 2010
US Army officer who received the Medal of Honor, the highest military award given by US Govt for his bravery during WWII.
Awarded medals after study by U.S. Army showed complete racial discrimination in awarding medals during World War II (no Medals of Honor had been given to black American soldiers who served in WWII).
Also received the Silver Star, Bronze Star Medal and the Purple Heart.
His Medal of Honor reads (abbreviated): “For extraordinary heroism in action… (he) demonstrated outstanding courage… (his) fighting spirit and daring leadership were an inspiration to his men and exemplify the highest traditions of the Armed Forces.”