By Jerry Narsh
Lake Orion Review Guest Writer
Since 2006, the Lake Orion Police Department has partnered with the Lake Orion American Legion Post #233 to annually select and honor a local Veteran for their service to their country on Memorial Day.

This year, we have expanded our veteran partnership to include the North Oakland VFW Post 334 in order to recognize the Honored Veteran from the largest pool of resident veterans.
The 2019 Lake Orion American Legion Post 233 / North Oakland VFW Post 334, LOPD Honored Veteran is Mr. Ernest W. Baker, Jr., United States Army Private First Class – World War II (Asiatic-Pacific campaign).
The Honored Veteran rides in the lead police vehicle at the head of the parade and their biography is read to the parade crowd at a brief ceremony during the parade.
In addition, they are recognized throughout the day and throughout the year at the various community events.
Since 2006, we have had the privilege of learning the amazing stories of military service during times of war and bravery and courage in battle that so many everyday members of our community have endured for the cause of liberty.
What we have also learned is that these soldiers, sailors, Marines and airmen are not every day Americans. They are everyday heroes. Simply said, theirs are the stories that, when patched together, re-create the battles and victories we often read about and celebrate.
The Honored Veteran is an ambassador for all Orion area veterans for the year. As we recognize him or her at events, we pause to remember the willing sacrifice of all veterans to keep their heroism in our hearts and minds.
Please join me in recognizing one of these American Heroes, by highlighting his service, courage and sacrifice in advance of this year’s Memorial Day community events and parades.
Ernest Baker was born in Sedalia, Missouri on Oct. 20, 1926. Ernie enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1943 and reported to Ford Hood Texas for basic training.
Private Baker was deployed to Leyte Island in the Philippines assigned to the 96th Infantry Division. When the 96th was then sent to Okinawa, an order came down to keep all 18-year-old or younger troops, such as Baker, on Leyte to guard Japanese prisoners and munitions.

Private Baker rejoined the 96th on Mindoro Island in the Philippines to begin training for the invasion of Japan. During this training Japan surrendered ending their preparation.
Ernie shared some memories that stay present in his mind still today:
On his first night on Leyte, Japanese bombers attacked their base. He and a fellow soldier were clearing an area for troop tents and hid under some coconut trees. When the coconuts started falling, they were worried they would be knocked out so they took shelter in a rice paddy sitting in mud and water until the threat had passed.
On another day, they were guarding a very large U.S. equipment and ammunition depot when he and a Philippine soldier saw a young boy, 10-12 years old, climbing the fence from inside the depot. The Philippine soldier shot the boy based on standing orders, severely injuring his leg. It was determined he was stealing a can of sliced pineapple. They had him transported for medical treatment but Ernie still thinks of him every time he eats pineapple.
Ernie is married and has raised two sons.
In October 1945 Ernie was selected as a first alternate position to attend West Point, but was never called to attend. After the war, Ernie obtained a Bachelor of Journalism Degree from the University of Missouri and had a career in Detroit-area advertising managing accounts that include the Detroit Tigers, Bank of America, Stanley Door, Sanders and Vernor’s, amongst many others.
Ernie owned and operated Baker’s Apple Orchard for 27 years. Ernie has also served lifelong in many civic and community organizations. Ernie was inducted into the Adcraft Club of Detroit Hall of fame in 2011.
Ernie is a life member of the both the North Oakland VFW and the Lake Orion American Legion. In addition, Ernie served as Commander of the North Oakland VFW Post 334 for seven years.
During his military service, Ernie Baker was awarded numerous medals and awards: Bronze Star, Combat Infantry Badge, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with Bronze Star, Philippine Liberation Medal and Good Conduct Medal, amongst several others.
Ernest W. Baker, Jr., is a patriot, husband, father and a proud member of the Lake Orion community. The Lake Orion Police Department is honored to recognize him as the 2019 Lake Orion Honored Veteran.
Please attend the Lake Orion Memorial Day Parade in Downtown Lake Orion and the service at the Orion Veterans Memorial. Ernie will be our honored guest, riding in the 1941 Ford police car at the head of the Parade. This is our opportunity to wave back and thank him for his service!