The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant Fred William Theodore Baker (ASN: 6864208), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Troop B, 3d Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron (Mechanized) on 1 September 1944 in Thionville, France. Staff Sergeant Baker was on an advance reconnaissance mission with his platoon which was attempting to capture a bridge that the enemy was trying to destroy. On receiving word that his platoon commander, who was across the bridge, was seriously injured, Staff Sergeant Baker drove across in his vehicle, dismounted in utter disregard for his own personal safety, to assist the commander, and take charge of the platoon. While so engaged Staff Sergeant Baker was shot and mortally wounded. Staff Sergeant Baker’s display of courage was an inspiration to all around him and was in keeping with the highest military traditions.