258253 RSM Thomas Dawson Baker MBE.British Army 9th Field Regiment Royal Artillery from:Notinghamshire Thomas Baker's MBE appeared in the London Gazette on 28th of June 1945, in recognition of gallant & distinguished services in Burma. The recommendation for the award is as follows:
1419898 Acting WO1 (RSM) Thomas Dawson Baker 9th Field Regiment Royal Artillery, At Bishenpur during May and June 1944 RSM Baker showed great devotion to duty, coolness and bravery under fire. His personal example and hard work, though himself tired out, ensured that an already fatigued Tactical HQ got themselves dug in before serious shelling started, and as a result no casualties were sustained from the constant and accurate shelling. His cheerfulness and complete obliviousness to danger during this period was an inspiration to all. On the Saddle on the night of 10th/11th of June when the enemy over ran Bastion, a position only some 200 yards from Brigade HQ, the remnants of the garrison came back in the darkness through the perimeter, RSM Baker by his coolness and courage under fire ensured that not only did RHQ stand firm in their sector and hold their fire, but that they also helped to steady troops of the remainder of the perimeter thus helping materially to restore a nasty situation. During the later stages of the campaign when men were getting very weary, his untiring energy and cheerfulness, his care of the men's welfare coupled with the complete disregard for the short rations and the attendant discomforts, was an example to all and an inspiration which helped to keep the morale of the Regiment at a very high level. The above are only isolated and typical examples of RSM Baker's conduct since he came to France with the regiment as BSM in September 1939. By his constant devotion to duty, enthusiasm, unswerving loyalty and hard work throughout the whole period of the war, and his personal example of courage and coolness under fire, RSM Baker has been an inspiring leader to his WOs, NCOs and men, and has played a large part in instilling and fostering the high morale of the regiment.
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