Determined For Duty

Vernon Baker did not budge and reappeared at the recruiter office. This time he got selected! The recruiter had immensely got impressed by his persistent nature. He wanted to be a quartermaster but was made an infantry soldier.

Prolonged Duty

He had completed his military training by the time U.S. forayed into the World War II. In 1943, he was made the second lieutenant. The very next year, he got transferred to Italy with 92nd Infantry Division. However, Vernon got injured and was hospitalized near Pisa. But his injury did not stop him from rejoining the army in 1944.

A Bold Leader In Battle

Vernon Baker and his platoon ascended the medieval Castle Aghinolfi high of  Italy’s Apennine Mountains. It was considered the stronghold of Germans. In order to demolish the power of Germans, it was mandatory for the Allies to break into their territory. Baker led 25 infantrymen into the territory of the enemies with heavy weapons. Facing snipers, barbed wire and mines Baker and his troops successfully broke into the inside of the fortified front.

Amazing Leadership

It was under Vernon leadership only that his team managed to dodge fatal attacks and climbed a giant mountain that brought them closer to the sight of enemy’s position. Standing atop the mountain, Baker tracked several German posts. Then the American troops faced heavy firing and it was again the time for someone to take charge. Baker came forward and single-handedly demolished a couple of enemy observation posts, Third Reich telephone lines, two German bunkers, and a machine gun position.

A Loyal Hero Who Never Quit

Baker’s company asked for reinforcement during the attacks but unfortunately, no one came. Resultantly, his number of troops began to decrease. He led a battalion that conquered the enemy stronghold, the very next day. Due to multiple attacks, Vernon suffered several injuries but despite that, he continued to serve. He stayed put in Europe till 1947 as Allied occupation.

The Long List Of Achievements

Baker has many achievements during his tenure at the service such as a Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and Distinguished Service Cross. He also became the first black to lead a group of white people. He also took the training for the military parachutist.