The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Aviation Warfare Systems Operator Third Class Kevin L. Baker, United States Navy, for heroism while serving as an H-60 Helicopter Search and Rescue Swimmer aboard Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron FIVE, embarked in U.S.S. JOHN C. STENNIS (CVN-74) on 5 June 1997. Petty Officer Baker and the crew of Canvas 615 launched from STENNIS in response to an emergency locator transmitter located off the coast of Massachusetts. Without regard for the imminent danger to his own life and without any hesitation, he repeatedly entered exceptionally hazardous waters with a temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit, churned by 55 knot winds, and 20 to 30 foot seas. He executed physically exhausting rescues of three Canadian sailors, at one point, diving beneath the life raft to untangle the helicopter rescue hoist cable. By his courageous and prompt actions in the face of great personal risk, Petty Officer Baker saved three lives, thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.