The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander Louis Martin Fabian, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as the Senior Squadron Beachmaster, during action on against enemy Japanese forces 20 November 1943, during the capture and occupation of Bititu Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands. Undeterred by the fierce and determined opposition of enemy forces, Commander Fabian ably directed the landing and unloading operations of our assault craft and, boldly conducting vital beach traffic, expedited the steady flow of large quantities of urgently needed supplies and heavy equipment to our advancing troops. By his meticulous planning, fearless leadership and unswerving devotion to duty, Commander Fabian contributed essentially to the capture and occupation of this important Japanese base during a critical stage of the war, and his gallant conduct throughout upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.