World War II veterans receive recognition medals

KEARNEY, Neb.— Two Nebraska World War II veterans are taking home hardware after being honored by a city official on Thursday. 

Gerald Baker and Jack Northrop were honored on Thursday in a recognition ceremony for their service.

City Council Member Alex Straatmann presented the two men their medals.

The ceremony is part of an initiative launched earlier this year by Governor Jim Pillen and the Nebraska Department of Veteran’s Affairs.

It serves to honor Nebraska’s living World War II veterans.

Straatmann is a veteran, as well. He sees multiple perspectives on ceremonies such as these. 

“I thought about whether I was more honored to be here as a City Councilman or to be here as a veteran and I don’t know which one I’m more honored to be here as,” said Straatmann. “But just to be in the room with so may of our veterans, especially our World War II veterans is just such an honor for me.”

Baker, a Kearney native, was drafted in 1945 during the conflict with Japan. He served for 18 months and was stationed in Texas. While in Texas, he served with the Military Police Battalion in Fort Worth and San Antonio.

Northrop was raised outside of Clay Center before undergoing basic naval training. His service with the Navy spanned from 1943-1944.