The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Denver Forrest Baxter (NSN: 0-112674), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy during a Carrier Task Force strike against Japanese-held Truk Atoll during World War II. As the pilot of an OS2U-3 aircraft he effected the rescue from certain capture or death of a carrier fighter pilot who had been shot down. With complete disregard for Japanese surface vessels in the vicinity, he flew low over Truk Lagoon until he located the downed pilot swimming in the water at a point about five miles south of Uman Island. With little regard for his own safety and despite hazardous seaplane operating conditions, he skillfully landed his plane, picked up the swimming pilot, and made a take-off with his overloaded plane. His actions on this occasion were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.