MEMORY for LTJG Paul Gerald Baker USN

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.

 Submitted by Doug Bewall RMCM USN Ret.