The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Chemical Warfare Service) Francis J. Baker, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 84th Chemical Battalion, 3d Infantry Division, on January 30, 1944 in Italy. On that date, at 1600 hours, about two miles north of Conca, Italy, First Lieutenant Baker manned a forward observation post, observing fire for a smoke mission by his platoon of 4.2 inch chemical mortars. Despite the face that the houses from which he was observing had received eight direct hits, he remained at his post until another shell brought the roof down on his head, destroying his radio and telephone. Immediately, Lieutenant Baker, through intense enemy artillery fire, ran 1,000 yards to the rear and obtained a new radio. He then returned to his observation post disdaining fragments which were hitting the ground all about him and continued to adjust the smoke screen. Because of his skill and determination, the mission was successfully accomplished. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.