Vernon Joseph Baker

Vernon Joseph Baker was a United States Army first lieutenant who served as an infantry company platoon leader during World War II and later as a paratrooper during the Korean War. He demonstrated extraordinary heroism on April 5–6, 1945, near Viareggio, Italy, when he led his platoon in an assault against heavily fortified enemy positions. Baker personally eliminated multiple enemy machine gun nests and observation posts, ensuring the secure advance of his unit.

In 1997, decades after his service, Baker was formally awarded the Medal of Honor, the nation's highest military decoration for valor, following a comprehensive federal review of the contributions of African-American service members. His valorous deeds had originally been recognized with the Distinguished Service Cross, which was subsequently upgraded to the Medal of Honor during a White House ceremony.

Baker remains one of the most highly decorated soldiers of World War II, having also earned the Silver Star, two Bronze Star Medals with "V" devices, and two Purple Hearts for wounds sustained in combat. Following his service in World War II, he joined the airborne forces and served during the Korean War, retiring from the Army as a first lieutenant and leaving a lasting legacy of courage and leadership under fire.