Assemblyman Mike Gatto (D-Los Angeles) honored Glendale resident Mike Baldwin as Veteran of the Year for the 43rd District at the 2012 Assembly Veterans Recognition Luncheon. A decorated veteran of the Vietnam War, Baldwin has had a distinguished career of service to our country and the community. Gatto flew Baldwin to Sacramento to be recognized at a special luncheon held today at the state capitol.

“I chose Mike not only for his honorable service to our country during Vietnam but also for his strong character and commitment to our community,” said Gatto. “He embodies the values of selflessness and service that are hallmarks of a United States veteran. He has put those values at the center of all he does, as a father, grandfather, and community leader.”

Baldwin’s military service began in 1966 when he enlisted in the United States Army. During the height of the Vietnam War, he played an instrumental role in Operations as a member of the 1st Infantry Division. Upon his honorable discharge in 1968, he was awarded a Bronze Star, two Army Commendation Medals, and a Vietnam Service Ribbon for his dedicated service.

Of his time in the Army, Baldwin noted, “I am proud of my service and of the fellow veterans I served with. I learned skills from my service that I used when I returned and still use today. All have made me a better person for my family and community.”

Currently, Baldwin is a leader in the veterans’ community in the 43rd Assembly District. He is Post Adjutant, 20th District Commander of American Legion Verdugo Hills Post 288 and Post Adjutant of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1614. His latest project is the restoration of the Two Strike Park Memorial, a cause that also means a lot to Assemblyman Gatto, who is working to raise funds for the memorial. Alongside fellow veterans and community leaders, Baldwin is leading the drive to raise $75,000 to repair and add the names of all Crescenta Valley citizens Killed-in-Action to the wall. He is committed to creating a place where all local fallen soldiers can be honored and remembered.

Gatto commended Baldwin’s endeavor, “It is essential that we remember the sacrifices made by servicemen and women on our behalf. Mike Baldwin and the Two Strike Memorial Wall project committee are taking action to ensure that this important tribute, and the memories of the local heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice, are preserved for future generations.”