The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Chief Electrician’s Mate Lewis Russell Baker, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as the Chief Electrician’s Mate in the Steering Motor Room of the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), in action when the ship was struck by a torpedo while making a turn with rudder full left in the Marshall Islands on 4 December 1943. Chief Electrician’s Mate Baker, despite his injuries and the effects of Freon and CO2 gas and failing air supply, moved the rudder from about full left to 20 degrees left by electric power before his cables failed. After this he used the emergency hand operated hydraulic system, to bring the rudder from 20 degrees left to three degrees left. Despite injuries and the lack of adequate equipment, and fully aware that the hatch above the Steering Motor Room was covered with water and that escape was cut off, he steadfastly continued his efforts until the rudder was finally brought to amidships. His great personal valor in the face of grave peril and his devotion to duty were an inspiration to the other men at his station and was in accordance with the highest traditions of the Naval Service.