WWII Veteran Vernon Baker Awarded Medal of Honor Decades After Battlefield Bravery

On Black History Month, stories of veterans who fought bravely are remembered. After being denied for over five decades due to racial discrimination, 1st Lt. Vernon Baker was awarded the Medal of Honor in 1997 for his extraordinary bravery during World War II. His recognition came as part of a long-overdue correction of history, making him one of seven Black American soldiers honored for their service in the war.

Baker, who initially faced rejection when trying to enlist in 1941, eventually fought with the segregated 92nd Infantry Division in Italy. On April 5, 1945, Baker led his platoon in a daring assault on a German stronghold at Aghinolfi Castle. Despite facing intense enemy fire, he eliminated multiple machine gun nests and fought for 12 hours, covering the retreat of his remaining men. His actions were instrumental in breaking enemy defenses.

Although he was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross in 1945, the highest honor given to Black soldiers then, it wasn’t until a military review decades later that he received the recognition he deserved. Baker’s story highlights the sacrifices of Black soldiers in WWII and the long fight for justice in military honors.

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