MAURICE ‘MO’ BAILEY

Wasilla resident Maurice “Mo” Bailey, 71, lost his battle with leukemia July 13, 2010 with his family and friends by his side.

Maurice was born on April 20, 1939 in Memphis, Tenn., to Edgar and Wilma (Harris) Bailey.

He joined the U.S. Army as a recon-helicopter and aircraft mechanic in May 1956. He served three tours in Vietnam. Maurice was honorably retired in July 1976 with more than 20 years proudly serving his country. He received the Air Medal (with three oak-leaf clusters), Good Conduct Medal (6th Award), Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Meritorious Unit Citation, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal (four bronze stars), Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon (with palm leaf) and Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation (with palm leaf).

His love for flying continued after he retired. He lived and worked in rural Bush Alaska, which inspired him working to help veterans in these areas. Maurice’s heart was for flying and veterans. Maurice founded Veterans Aviation Outreach and it was started for the sole purpose to help veterans. Maurice and his “crew” of pilots, veterans and helpers have touched many lives by providing support, clothing, housing and food for veterans in need.

His dedication earned him the respect of many individuals. Maurice received the Governor’s Veterans Advocacy Award in 2007 and a citation from the Alaska Legislature in 2010. He also received the Federal Employee of the Year Citizen Leadership Award from the Alaska Veterans Affairs for his countless efforts on behalf of veterans.

Maurice was president of Vietnam Veterans of America Mat-Su chapter 903, a member of AmVets Post 11 and Palmer Elks Lodge #1842.

Maurice is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Ann Bailey, family, brothers and sisters-in-arms and many friends.

Full Military Honors will be held at Ft. Richardson National Cemetery 1:30 p.m. Monday, July 19 followed a Celebration of Life and potluck at the Palmer Elks Lodge at 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, condolences may be sent to P.O. Box 4447, Palmer, AK 99645.

Arrangements were with Valley Funeral Home and Crematory in Wasilla.