Loren Edwin Baxter

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Loren Edwin Baxter (0-363436), Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in the action against major enemy fleet units in the Inland Sea of Japan, on 24 July 1945. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Baxter skillfully and courageously piloted his aircraft in a dive bombing attack against an enemy battleship. He pressed home his attack despite intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire, scoring a direct hit with his bomb which contributed materially to the subsequent sinking of the warship. His skill and courage were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Commander, 2d Carrier Task Force, Pacific: Serial 01863 (September 18, 1945)