The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Douglas Baker (NSN: 0-300883), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as pilot of a carrier-based fighter aircraft in action against the enemy in the Philippine Islands area. On 27 October he strafed an enemy destroyer and on 11 November he made a direct bomb hit on an enemy destroyer and damaged two others by strafing under similar heavy anti-aircraft fire. This accomplishment was performed with complete disregard for his own personal safety. His courage and skill were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.



