The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal to Major General John R. Baker, United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States. General Baker distinguished himself as Director of Joint Matters and Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff, Air and Space Operations, Headquarters United States Air Force, Washington, District of Columbia, from 14 February 2000 to 21 March 2002. General Baker forcefully educated senior leadership throughout the Department of Defense on the importance of lashing together intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance platforms to command and control systems. Bringing Air Force-wide focus to the Predator Unmanned Aerial Vehicle system led to new capabilities and concepts for operations allowing a Joint Force Commander t o have combat decision superiority, demonstrated with devastating impact during operations in Afghanistan. As the C-130J Task Force leader, his focus on training and safety issues directly resulted in the realignment of this Major Defense Acquisition Program from an unconventional procurement to a properly sequenced weapon system acquisition program. General Baker’s outstanding leadership of the Long Haul Task Force solidified the Air Force response to the attacks of 11 September 2001 and postured the Air Force to continue current operations, protect our people and infrastructure, and successfully meet the challenges of Operations ENDURING FREEDOM and NOBLE EAGLE. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of General Baker reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.