After 14 long months away from family and friends, Vernon Baldwin is back on "duty" here in Georgia - managing the McDuffie Public Fishing Area, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division.
Maj. Baldwin, the McDuffie PFA Manager, recently served a 14-month deployment in Washington, D.C. on the Homeland Security task force.
"I found the time spent in D.C. was both challenging and rewarding, and I thank God for the opportunity to serve my country," said Maj. Baldwin. "I am very proud of my service, but am also happy to be back home with my family and back on the job at McDuffie."
Maj. Baldwin began his career with WRD in 1989, and in his current position oversees the operations of the McDuffie PFA. In addition, he provides assistance at the McDuffie Fish Hatchery and security for the PFA. Maj. Baldwin is P.O.S.T. certified as a Deputy Conservation Ranger. During his recent military service in Washington, D.C., Maj. Baldwin served with the South Carolina National Guard, whose duties included patrolling air space over the nation's capitol.
Maj. Baldwin, his wife Shirley and their two daughters, Ashley and Veronica, reside on the PFA property.
