Henry Baul: As one of the first African Americans enlisted by the USMC, the last branch of the service to comply with President Roosevelt’s order to enlist blacks, Henry Baul was among the first five Marines to report to Montford Point. He served as a gunnery sergeant in the South Pacific for almost four years and fought in the battles of Tarawa and Iwo Jima. Henry was the founder and CEO of City Cab and Citywide Transportation and was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal as part of the Montford Marines.
John Sobeck (1924-2016): WWII veteran Navy Officer 2nd Class John Sobeck was part of the amphibious unit landing in Normandy on D-Day. He continued serving in the European theater from 1943-1946. Settling in the Detroit area after the war’s end, John and his wife Iola opened frozen custard stands and then established the first Chicken Shack restaurant in 1956 now with locations throughout the Detroit metro area. He is well-known in the community for his service and his commitment to family. His wife, Iola, will be accepting the award in his memory.
We had a great night at our fouth annual fundriser, The Victory Gala.
As you can see, a good time was had by all as we raised funds and honored two heroes with the Victory Award. Enjoy the photos (more will be coming) as well as the videos of Victory Award honorees Henry Baul and John Sobeck prepared by Al Muskovitz. We salute their courage and sacrifice as well as their service to country, community and family.