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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain George L. Baker, United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a C-130B Pilot at Dong Ha, Republic of Vietnam on 16 August 1968. On that date, Captain Baker flew a combat essential mission into the United States Marine Base at Dong Ha to deliver a load of urgently needed ammunition. Although his aircraft was hit by highly accurate hostile ground fire and suffered severe structural damage, Captain Baker continued to demonstrate the highest degree of calm professionalism. His great courage under fire made an indispensable contribution to the successful completion of an important mission and the safe recovery of his aircraft and crew. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Baker reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant

    Action Date:

    April 27, 1968
    Citation Courtesy of the Distinguished Flying Cross Society – www.dfcsociety.org

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross with Combat “V” to First Lieutenant George L. Baker, United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a C-130B Co-pilot near A Luoi, Republic of Vietnam on 27 April 1968. On that date, Lieutenant Baker participated in the most hazardous airlift support mission ever undertaken in Southeast Asia. Flying at extremely low altitude in mountainous terrain, under adverse weather conditions, and braving continuous fire from entrenched anti-aircraft gun emplacements, Lieutenant Baker successfully airdropped vitally needed ammunition to United States Army forces operating in the A Shau Valley. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Baker reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.