BOISE -- U.S. Rep. Walt Minnick is donating his frequent flyer miles to the widow of Medal of Honor recipient Vernon Baker so she can attend his burial at Arlington National Cemetery.
Baker, who belatedly received the nation's highest military award for his role in World War II, was 90 when he died at his home near St. Maries in northern Idaho last month.
Baker's wife, Heidi, recently told reporters the family could not afford to travel to Virginia for his ceremonial burial.
Minnick, a Democrat who represents Idaho's 1st Congressional District, learned of Heidi Baker's dilemma and offered to let the family use the frequent flyer miles he has earned from business and campaign trips on U.S. Airways.
Minnick's office confirmed Wednesday that travel arrangements were being made for Heidi Baker, her daughter and nine-year-old grandson, Vernon, so they could attend the Sept. 24 service.
