The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain John P. Baden (MCSN: 0-36002), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy while serving as a Pilot in a Marine Fighting Squadron in Korea. On 29 August 1951, Captain Baden took off with his flight on a special strike to disrupt the enemy rail supply route at Kumch’on, Korea. Despite adverse weather conditions and hazardous terrain, Captain Baden evidenced expert leadership ability by accurately and safely directing his flight deep into enemy territory to this enemy stronghold. Notwithstanding the heavy and accurate anti-aircraft fire over the target, Captain Baden, without regard for his own personal safety, positioned his planes to as to make the most effective strike against the objective and initiated his attack. Skillfully employing his planes to the best advantage, he repeatedly bombed and strafed the target. As a direct result of his skillful airmanship and courageous attacks one enemy rail tunnel was completely closed, one rail bridge was severely damaged and three separate rail cuts were effected. These attacks and the ensuing damage greatly impeded the flow of vitally needed supplies to the enemy front line positions. Captain Baden’s skillful flying and fearless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.