Vernon Baker to get Medal of Honor Flag

Vernon Baker, the decorated World War II veteran and St. Maries resident, will receive the Medal of Honor Flag in a public ceremony today.

The Medal of Honor Flag was created by Congress in 2002. It commemorates the sacrifice made for American freedoms and emphasizes that the Medal of Honor is the highest award for valor by a member of the Armed Forces.

Baker was one of six black American soldiers chosen in 1997 for the Medal of Honor. In 1945, Lt. Baker served in the U.S. Army’s last all-black infantry division.

He led his platoon in a heroic battle for a German-occupied castle in northern Italy, eventually retreating but triggering events that led to the castle’s ultimate capture.

Baker, who settled in St. Maries in 1987, will receive the flag at 3:30 p.m. at the Eagles Lodge, 707 Main Ave., in St. Maries. The public is invited.