War Hero Earns Credit Long Overdue

by Jessica Williams
photo by Mike Sobolewski
Published Mar 16, 2007

He is credited with saving several marines during the battle of Iwo Jima. More than six decades later, a local Navy veteran will receive recognition.

Paul Baker served as a corpsman during World War II for the Navy. He was trained to save lives, and that’s what he did on February 19, 1945 when his ship came ashore on Iwo Jima.

After giving several marines medical attention, Paul noticed that he too, was injured. He had shrapnel wounds all over his body, and after treatment, went home to Watertown on sick leave.

The war ended, and Paul never heard from a shipmate until 58 years later.

A call from an old Navy buddy rekindled a Silver Star recommendation that a medical officer had given Paul during the war. Paul never knew about it. With the help of family, friends, and Navy buddies, Paul will finally earn his Bronze Star, with valor.

“The survivors, it’s not about. It’s about the guys that didn’t come back. Make sure you give them credit”, said Baker, now of Irondequoit.

The secretary of the Navy will present Paul with the Bronze Star with valor next Friday.

Ellie