The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant William Leverette Kabler, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Minesweeper U.S.S. HERON (AM-10), during operations in Dutch East Indies on 31 December 1941. When the U.S. warship he commanded was attacked by 15 hostile planes of various types, Lieutenant Kabler fought his ship with such skill that the crew was able to destroy one plane, damage others and frustrate the attack. The conduct of Lieutenant Kabler throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.