The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Kenneth A. Baker (NSN: 0-299248), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights against enemy forces from 3 January 1945 through 12 January 1945, in the vicinity of the South China Sea. In the face of extremely adverse weather conditions and intense anti-aircraft fire, he proceeded to strafe ground installations of a major enemy airfield, obtaining a direct bomb hit on a barracks and shop area, causing explosives and damage by fire. On 12 January 1945, he pressed bombing and strafing attacks against an enemy convoy obtaining a direct hit on one tanker with a 1,000-pound bomb, causing its destruction. His courage and skill were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.