The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Gayle E. Baker (ASN: 33525087), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 80th Infantry Division in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 25 November 1944 in France. On that date, near St. Avold, France, the squad which Staff Sergeant Baker was leading in an attack was temporarily delayed by direct fire from machine guns in a strong enemy position. Realizing that artillery fire was necessary to neutralize the position, Staff Sergeant Baker, even though wounded, advanced across open ground to lead an artillery observer to a position from which artillery fire was directed upon the enemy. With this supporting fire Staff Sergeant Baker continued leading his squad until his painful wounds no longer permitted further activity. His courage, leadership, and zealous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.