The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Machinist’s Mate Third Class William Albert Baker (NSN: 8171784), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as turret gunner in a carrier-based Torpedo Plane during an attack on a strong Japanese task force off Kyushu on 7 April 1945. In spite of intense anti-aircraft fire from several enemy warships he performed his duties skillfully and materially assisted his pilot in scoring a torpedo hit which sank a large enemy destroyer without assistance from any other plane. His skill and courage were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

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 Aviation Machinist’s Mate Third Class William Albert Baker (NSN: 8171784), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights in operations against the enemy in the vicinity of Honshu, Kyushu, and Nansei Shoto. As turret gunner of a carrier-based plane during the period 16 February 1945 to 21 May 1945, he participated in twenty strikes against enemy shipping and ground installations inflicting extensive damage. His skill and courage were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.