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Navy Federal Credit Union

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 Lieutenant Colonel [then Major] Harry Franklin Baker, Jr. (MCSN: 0-5258), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight during the period 23 August to 1 September 1942. Lieutenant Colonel Baker, while serving as pilot of a Marine Transport Plane during the first major transfer of a squadron of Marine transport aircraft from the United States to the South Pacific area, displayed keen judgment, exceptional skill and superior airmanship despite the great hazards of long over water flights, lack of weather reports, communication facilities and navigational aids. His determination and devotion to duty were instrumental in the successful accomplishment of the mission and his actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Major

    Regiment:

    Marine Aircraft Group 25

    Action Date:

    October 15, 1942
    Commander South Pacific Area and South Pacific Force: Serial 01038 (June 26, 1943)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Harry Franklin Baker, Jr. (MCSN: 0-5258), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving with Marine Aircraft Group TWENTY-FIVE, as pilot of a Naval Transport airplane operating into Henderson Field on 15 October 1942. After completing a regular trip into the Solomon Islands area, Major Baker returned to that area without sufficient rest with a load of bombs, oxygen and gasoline to alleviate a critical shortage caused by the destruction of these stores at Henderson Field by enemy action. Henderson Field was being continually attacked by enemy fighter and dive-bomber airplanes and shelled by enemy shore-based artillery and he displayed outstanding courage and devotion to duty in successfully landing this load during this attack. Major Baker courageously assisted in the unloading of his cargo and the loading of wounded and took off, skillfully maneuvering his plane with the field still being attacked by enemy fighters and bombers. The courage, skill and zeal displayed by Major Baker was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.