Down To Earth

Vernon Baker was now 77 and addressed the walls of White House. He revealed,“I was thinking about what was going on up on the hill that day, I was an angry young man. We were all angry. But we had a job to do, and we did it. My personal thoughts were that I knew things would get better, and I’m glad to say that I’m here to see it.” Something more was there for Baker.

A Historical Place

Even if the medal of honor is the highest military decoration, the occasion was different because Baker became the first ever African American from the first World War II to get this honor. A study made by a Shaw University student in the year 1992 about mistreatment of the blacks lead this war veteran to be included in this Distinguished Service Crosses.

A Lone Legend

Vernon Baker was the only man to be awarded the Medal of Honor by President Clinton that night. The other soldiers eligible to get the award were Edward A. Carter, Jr., John R. Fox, Willy F. James, Jr., Ruben Rivers, Charles L. Thomas and George Watson had already lost their lives.

Strength and Inspiration

“Second Lieutenant Baker’s fighting spirit and daring leadership were an inspiration to his men and exemplify the highest traditions of the Armed Forces,” was the Medal of Honor quote for Baker. Vernon Baker was indeed meant to receive this accolade. He had already beaten his cancer back in the year 2004.

His Legacy Lives On

This war hero took his last breath on July 13, 2010. He passed away in the comfort of his own home in Idaho and was 90 years old. His burial took place at the famous Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia along with his fellow servicemen. He is someone who will live on in the hearts of soldiers and Americans forever.