The City of DeSoto and the National Rakkasans Association will join the United States Army’s 187th Infantry Regiment in honoring hometown hero James Baylor.
The ceremony will be held on Sunday, Nov. 19, at the DeSoto Town Center Amphitheater at 1:30 p.m.
Recognizing Valor in the Face of Controversy:
54 years after the Battle of Hamburger Hill, the United States is finally honoring Baylor.
The formal ceremony will bring together military leaders, Mayor Rachel Proctor, city officials, a military band, and Specialist Baylor himself.
The purpose of the event is to properly recognize Baylor for his service to the country and his heroism during the Battle of Hamburger Hill, a significant and controversial battle during the Vietnam War.
A Hero’s Journey:
In May 1969, Baylor and the US Army’s 187th Infantry Regiment’s “Rakkasans fought with valor and was wounded at the Battle of Hamburger Hill.
Despite surviving his injuries, Baylor returned home without formal recognition of his heroism.
However, the United States military is finally righting that wrong and honoring the hero from DeSoto.
A Well-Deserved Honor:
Baylor will be awarded the Bronze Star with V for Valor, a Purple Heart for the wounds he received in battle, along with numerous other awards, badges, and ribbons.
He will also receive a Presidential Unit Citation issued collectively to the Rakkasans for his regiment’s extraordinary heroism.
The ceremony not only pays tribute to Specialist Baylor’s individual bravery but also serves as a collective recognition of the sacrifices made by the Rakkasans during a pivotal moment in history.
Residents of DeSoto are invited and encouraged to join in this momentous occasion, expressing gratitude for Baylor’s service and resilience.