Paul G. Baker
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| Paul Gerald Baker | |
|---|---|
| February 20, 1910 – May 7, 1942 (aged 32) | |
| Place of birth | Joy, Illinois |
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/branch | United States Navy |
| Years of service | 1929–42 |
| Rank | Lieutenant (jg) |
| Unit | Fighter Squadron 2 (VF-2) |
| Battles/wars | World War II *Battle of the Coral Sea |
| Awards | Navy Cross |
Paul Gerald Baker was born on 20 February 1910 in Joy, Illinois. He enlisted in the United States Navy on 12 December 1929. From 1935, he served with aviation activities and units, and rose through the enlisted ranks to Aviation Chief Radioman. On 14 April 1942, while serving with Fighter Squadron 2 (VF-2) on board Lexington (CV-2), he was appointed Lieutenant (junior grade) for temporary service. During the Battle of the Coral Sea, Lt. Baker downed three Japanese planes and badly damaged a fourth in the engagements on 7 May 1942, but failed to return from his last mission. His heroism and devotion to duty won him the posthumous award of the Navy Cross.
[edit] Namesake
In 1944, the destroyer escort USS Paul G. Baker (DE-642) was named in his honor, sponsored by Mrs. Katherine E. Baker.
[edit] See also
[edit] References
- This article includes text from the public domain Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships. The entry can be found here.
