Baker, Paul Gerald, LTJG

LTJG Paul Gerald Baker USN enlisted in the Navy on December 12, 1929. Commencing in 1935 he served in the Aviation arm for the remainder of his career, having advanced to Chief Aviation Radioman. Baker was serving in Fighter Squadron 2 (VF-2), embarked USS Lexington CV-2 when he was temporarily appointed to LTJG, April 14, 1942. On May 7, 1942, as a fighter pilot, he failed to return during the Battle of Coral Sea. During that May 7 day, he had shot down three Japanese planes and damaged a fourth. LTJG Baker was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross. The USS Paul G. Baker DE-642 is named for him.

Navy Cross
Awarded for Actions During World War II
Service: Navy
Battalion: Fighting Squadron 2 (VF-2)
Division: U.S.S. Lexington (CV-2)
General Orders: Commander In Chief Pacific Fleet: Serial 2885 (July 7, 1942)
Citation: The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Paul Gerald Baker (NSN: 0-146505), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron TWO (VF-2), attached to the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Air Battle of the Coral Sea on 7 and 8 May 1942. With utter disregard for personal safety, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Baker fearlessly attacked enemy aircraft, destroying three and damaging one other. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Baker's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.