The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Motor Machinist’s Mate Second Class David Ambrose Baker, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action when serving as a crew member of an Allied junk under heavy fire along the China coast. Despite heavy fire and from an exposed position he operated a bazooka gun and skillfully fired his limited supply of ammunition. The crew of a .30 caliber machine gun alongside him were killed and Motor Machinist’s Mate Second Class Baker took over the machine gun and skillfully pressed the attack until the enemy surrendered. His efforts under extremely hazardous conditions, utter disregard for his own personal safety and courageous actions were in accordance with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.