The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Charles Elton Fisher, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of Landing Craft Infantry Gunboat FOUR HUNDRED SEVENTY-THREE (LCI(G)-473), operating as a unit of LCI(G), Group EIGHT, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the close-in fire support operations against Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands on 17 February 1945. Pounded and battered by enemy gunfire which inflicted severe damage and wounded half his crew as he boldly closed the beach within one thousand yards of heavy fortifications, Lieutenant Fisher fought his crippled ship with determined aggressiveness, releasing a full salvo of rockets against the enemy despite the deadly rain of heavy shells bursting on all sides and, directing his uninterrupted gunfire with steady accuracy, effectively maintained a furious barrage against Japanese coastal positions until the 473 was ultimately disabled and taken under tow from the field of combat. Undaunted by the terrific odds when his lightly-armored gunboat was attacked at sea by hostile aircraft and cast adrift from the towing vessel, he demonstrated outstanding fortitude and leadership, inspiring all aboard by his gallant acceptance of hardship as the small craft tossed helplessly throughout the night. By his great personal valor, indomitable fighting spirit and unceasing efforts to save his ship and personnel in the face of savage opposition, Lieutenant Fisher contributed materially to the success of this extremely hazardous mission and his resolute conduct throughout upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.