Honoring Toledo Hero: Jack Baker and the Legacy of Montford Point Marines

Toledo, OH - The Montford Point Marines were trailblazers, the first Black men to enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps. From 1942 to 1949, they trained under segregated conditions at a separate facility miles away from their white counterparts at Camp Lejeune.

Their groundbreaking service paved the way for future generations and broke significant racial barriers within the military. In 2011, President Obama awarded them the Congressional Gold Medal, a recognition that was both historic and deeply deserved.

Jack Baker, a lifelong Toledoan and graduate of Woodward High School, was one such Marine. He was a husband, father, and a proud member of the Montford Point Marines. Baker served in the Pacific theater during World War II, contributing to critical military efforts and marking his place in history.

Though Jack Baker rarely spoke of his military experiences, the impact of his service was monumental. His daughter, DeMita Baker, recalls that their father was very dedicated to education and ensuring his family was well taken care of. He instilled values of good citizenship and proper behavior in his children.

Another daughter, Viveca Crews, mentioned that he often kept the hardships of his service to himself, not wanting his family to endure the same pain. It was only through detailed exploration, aided by a cousin who is a Lt. Colonel stationed at Camp Lejeune, that the family began to truly understand Jack’s role and sacrifices as a Montford Point Marine.

Jack Baker’s legacy extends far beyond his immediate family. The recent recognition of his service, acknowledged through a ceremony in North Carolina, was attended by more than a dozen of his family members. They were presented with a replica of the Congressional Gold Medal, finally giving Baker the honor he deserved.

DeMita Baker shared that this recognition emphasizes the resilience and determination of African Americans throughout history. Despite attempts to suppress them, the Montford Point Marines thrived, surviving the adversities they faced.

The Baker family hopes that their story will inspire others connected to the Montford Point Marines to delve into their own histories and honor their ancestors’ contributions. DeMita especially has taken it upon herself to spread the word, helping others to feel and understand the sacrifices made by their forefathers.

The attendance of nine surviving Montford Point Marines at the event highlighted the enduring legacy of these brave men. Out of the 20,000 original members, only a few thousand have been identified. Events like this one serve to swell those numbers and ensure that the Montford Point Marines are rightfully recognized.

For Toledo, the story of Jack Baker is a poignant reminder of the unheralded heroes in our own community. His courage, dedication, and the long journey to recognition are sources of immense pride and inspiration for all.