The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Machinist’s Mate Second Class Joseph S. Baird, United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in the Southwest Pacific Area. During the period from 22 December 1944 to 7 March 1945, Aviation Machinist’s Mate Second Class Baird participated in twenty combat missions, over enemy territory in the vicinity of operational airfields, during which enemy opposition was probable and expected. His actions during this period were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.