The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Matthew Joseph Reichl (NSN: 0-187470), 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-FOUR (LCI(G)-474), operating as a unit of LCI(G), Group EIGHT, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the close-in fire support operations in the pre-invasion bombardment of Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands, on 17 February 1945. Under his cool and capable direction his guns continued to deliver intense and effective fire against the enemy although his ship was repeatedly struck by large caliber enemy shells. When it became apparent that his ship was in immediate danger of sinking, he skillfully maneuvered the heavily listing craft alongside a destroyer, and capably and efficiently supervised the evacuation of the many wounded. By his cool and capable action he undoubtedly saved the lives of several men who otherwise might have perished. While still under fire from the beach, he courageously led a volunteer party in an attempt to salvage the stricken vessel. His valorous conduct and tenacity of purpose were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.