There is more great news about New York State Trooper Donald Baker Jr., who had been hospitalized since being shot on Aug. 31 – he returned home last week and was able to spend Thanksgiving with his family. The PBA continues to send its support, positive thoughts and prayers to Trooper Baker and his family during his recovery.

Below is an article from the Times Union newspaper of Albany about Trooper Baker’s release from the hospital.

By DANIELLE FURFARO, Staff writer

First published: Tuesday, November 28, 2006

CLIFTON PARK — Nearly three months after being wounded during the hunt for notorious fugitive Ralph "Bucky" Phillips, State Trooper Donald H. Baker Jr. is home from the hospital.

Baker, 38, has spent most of his days at Hamot Medical Center in Erie, Pa., since the Aug. 31 ambush when he and Trooper Joseph Longobardo, 32, were shot allegedly by Phillips. The officers were aiding in the search for the escapee from Erie County Jail.

Two weeks ago, Baker was transferred to Albany Medical Center Hospital.

Baker was among hundreds of troopers dispatched to the rural Chautauqua County in the western part of the state for the search — the largest manhunt in state history. Phillips surrendered Sept. 8.

Longobardo died Sept. 3 in a Buffalo hospital from complications of the gunshot wound to his leg.

Baker was released from Albany Med on Nov. 20 and spent Thanksgiving with his family. His recovery and rehabilitation will continue at home, State Police said.

Police said the Baker family requested the trooper’s release from the hospital be kept quiet to allow him time to transition back into family life.

The family wished to not make any public statements and asked that people continue to keep them in their prayers, police said.