December 15, 2009 in City

Vernon Baker during his career in the military.

Vernon Baker is getting the credit he deserves for his courageous actions during World War II.

General Colin Powell and Vernon Baker share a brief moment during a reception the night before the Medal of Honor ceremonies.

President Clinton places The Medal of Honor on Vernon Baker during a ceremony in the East Room of the White House Monday Jan. 13, 1997.

Vernon Baker wipes his eye while meeting with Gen. Robert Foley at the Pentagon Monday Jan. 13, 1997 after receiving the Medal of Honor from President Clinton at the White House. Foley is one of two Medal of Honor winners still on active duty.

President Clinton and Sandra Johnson applaud after Vernon Baker received The Medal of Honor from the president during a ceremony in the East Room of the White House Monday Jan. 13, 1997.

Vernon Baker meets reporters on the North Lawn of the White House Monday Jan. 13, 1997 after receiving the Medal of Honor from President Clinton.

Capt. Mark Jackson escorts Vernon Baker through flury of handshakes as he leaves the White House Monday Jan. 13, 1997 after receiving the Medal of Honor from President Clinton.

Honorary Grand Marshall Vernon Baker waves to the crowd lining Sprague ave during the Lilac Parade 5/17/97.

Vernon Baker throws out the first pitch in the Indians opener on 6/17/97 at Seafirst Stadium.

Vernon Baker, standing, joins African-American World War II veterans from around the country in a parade in honor of their contributions Saturday, Feb. 3, 2001, in New Orleans. Baker, who led a charge on a German stronghold on Castle Aghinolfi near Pisa, Italy, on April 5, 1945, was awarded the Medal of Honor 1997 by President Clinton. Clinton issued an apology on behalf of the country for neglecting to honor black soldiers.

Vernon Baker, 85, and his wife Heidi live in St. Maries, Idaho. Baker is the only living African-American Medal of Honor recipient from WWII. Jesse Tinsley/The Spokesman-Review