Lionel Henry Baker

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lionel Henry Baker, Pharmacist’s Mate Second Class, U.S. Navy, for exceptional courage, presence of mind, and devotion to duty and disregard for his personal safety while serving on board the Repair Ship U.S.S. VESTAL (AR-4), during the Japanese attack on the United States Pacific Fleet in Pearl Harbor, Territory of Hawaii, on 7 December 1941. Pharmacist’s Mate Second Class Baker cared for the wounded in an outstanding manner, although suffering from shrapnel wounds himself. By his courage and efforts in behalf of others at great risk to his own life, Pharmacist’s Mate Second Class Baker undoubtedly saved many lives, and his steadfast devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.