African-American Veterans
Receive Medel of Honor

 In the East Room of the White House, President Bill Clinton placed the Medal of Honor around the kneck of 77-year-old Vernon Baker. "History," the President said, "has been made whole today." Baker and six deceased African-American Veterans were finally being decorated for their heroic service during World War II, an honor they had been denied because of their race.

About 1.2 million African-Americans served in World War II, but noe of them received the Medal Of Honor, the nation's highest honor for wartime bravery. After the war, black veterans called for an investigation to determine if racism had kept them from winning the medal. Finally, in 1993, a special panel decided that a general pattern of racism in the army had indeed prevented African-Americans from being honored. Baker and six other blacks, the panel said, deserved the Medal of Honor.

Four of the seven men belatedly honored had been killed in combat during the war. two others had died since. Their medals were accepted by family members at the White house. After receiving his medal, a tearful Baker said, "The only thing I can say to those who were not here with me today is" Thank you, fellow. Well done.

To Vernon Baker, Edward Carter, John Fox, Willy James, Ruben Rivers, Charles Thomas, and George Watson, You have our thanks as well.

DID YOU KNOW....In April, 1945, Baker led an attack on German machine-gun nests near Viareggio, Italy. He then drew enemy fire to himself so his platoon could evacuate wounded American soldiers.

If you would like to know more about African-Americans in World War II, visit this great website.

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