The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Phillip L. Baker (ASN: 0-555108), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 255th Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 3 January 1945, in the vicinity of Achen, France. When one of his patrols was late in returning, Lieutenant Baker decided to go in search of it. Although fully aware of the danger involved, he gallantly crossed a bridge into enemy-held territory under fire to search a town. After safely passing this hazard, he encountered an enemy tank which opened fire, killing him. Lieutenant Baker’s valiant sacrifice was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.