Vernon Baker Day Celebrated In State

Today is Vernon Baker Day in Idaho, by decree of Idaho Gov. Phil Batt.

That declaration was made in conjunction with ceremonies planned for St. Maries honoring Baker. Batt is presenting Baker with the Distinguished Service Medal during today’s Lincoln Day dinner in St. Maries.

Baker, who lives near St. Maries, became the only living black World War II veteran to receive the Medal of Honor, at a White House ceremony Jan. 13. That honor was conferred on Baker by President Clinton for his deeds during a battle in Italy in 1945.

Six other black World War II veterans received the Medal of Honor posthumously in the same ceremony.

The Distinguished Service Medal, which Batt will present, was established by Congress in 1918. It is given to people serving in the Army who distinguish themselves with “exceptionally meritorious service.”

, DataTimes