A local Moline solider may be gone, but he is definitely not forgotten. Sunday family and friends of Vietnam veteran and Medal of Honor recipient, John Baker, came together at Jumer's Casino and Hotel in Rock Island to celebrate an important anniversary.
While Baker passed away only six months ago, two years ago he was honored when the 2-80 bridge was renamed after him. A special monument outside of Jumer's was also dedicated to him at that time.
"It just kind of brings everything full circle, you know when you write something you end with a period at the end of it, this kind of completes it," said sister Gloria Helfrich.
Baker was remembered with music, the playing of taps, and kind words from the people he touched. Baker is credited for saving the lives of several soldiers in Vietnam after being ambushed by enemy fire. However, it's not just his bravery that's caught the admiration of so many.
"The body of work he did for the vets administration, his career in the army, an exemplary career in the army, he was just an outstanding person, a common man with a huge, huge heart," said Ray Hamilton, former President of the Vietnam Veteran's of America Quad Cities Chapter.
"After we retired we did a lot of travel, visited the troops. hospitals and schools," Baker's wife Donnelle said.
Donnelle said while his passing has been hard, she's grateful for all the community's support and the ceremony is just as much about thanking the Quad Cities, as it is about thanking Baker himself.
"It's very heart warming, I am very thankful."
