The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Captain Harold Carlton Fitz, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Light Cruiser U.S.S. SANTA FE (CL-60), while serving with the fleet in action against enemy Japanese forces off the southern coast of Honshu, Japan, on 19 March 1945. Captain Fitz brought his damaged cruiser alongside the U.S.S. FRANKLIN, lying crippled in the water as the result of enemy action, and held his hazardous position to effect the rescue of great numbers of personnel. Simultaneously engaging his ship in fighting fires on board the disabled craft and heaving in on the towline from another cruiser, he aided the FRANKLIN to withdraw without further damage and contributed his gallant service until the carrier could effect emergency repairs and return to port under her own power. Captain Fitz’ inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of this vital mission and reflects great credit upon the United States Naval Service.