The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Captain Harold E. Baker (NSN: 0-71560), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States and the United Nations as Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations on the Staff of Commander Blockading and Escort Force during combat operations against enemy North Korean and Chinese Communist Forces in the Korean Theater from 25 August 1952 to 27 July 1953. Captain Baker’s keen foresight and consummate ability in planning the operations and dispositions of the ships of this force directly contributed both to the low order of incidents of ship damage from enemy fire and to the infliction of great damage to enemy shore installations. He rendered invaluable assistance to the Force Commander in the development of new operational procedures within the concept of blockade and interdiction, which permitted widespread destruction of enemy installations, and at the same time maintained the maximum economy of assigned forces. Because of his devotion to duty, Captain Baker frequently boarded the ships of this force engaged in combat operations and was exposed to enemy fire in order to gain first-hand experience and information so that he might give optimum performance in his assigned tasks. His outstanding skill and excellent judgment contributed greatly to the conclusion of the campaign in Korea. His exceptionally meritorious conduct and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Captain Baker is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)