The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Corps of Engineers) Fred W. Baker (ASN: 0-2000223), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company A, 150th Engineer Combat Battalion, 1135th Engineer Combat Group, XII Corps, in action against an armed enemy on 7 February 1945, in Luxembourg. Lieutenant Baker courageously led his platoon to reinforce troops manning assault boats for an assault crossing of the Our River. Shortly after his arrival at the site, the operation had to cease due to the fog lifting, permitting excellent enemy observation from the far shore. Lieutenant Baker was wounded shortly thereafter when a heavy barrage smashed in the vicinity of them, however, he refused medical evacuation and stayed with his men thinking only of their welfare. Later in the operation Lieutenant Baker was forced to accept evacuation when his arm became useless due to the wound in his shoulder. By his determination to successfully complete the mission at hand and his fearless courage he remained an example to his men throughout the remainder of the operation. The superb leadership and dauntless heroism displayed by Lieutenant Baker reflects great credit upon himself and upholds the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.