The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Howard L. Mabie (MCSN: 0-14385), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of Company D, Second Battalion, Twenty-ninth Marines, SIXTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ruykyu Islands, 18 May 1945. Courageous and aggressive, Captain Mabie personally led his company in the assault on the fiercely defended Sugar Loaf Hill in the Naha-Shuri line. Realizing the need of supporting fire, he went forward of his company into an open field covered by intensive enemy crossfire to direct the fire of tanks which were to spearhead the attacks and, then continuing to lead his men against a fanatical enemy, succeeded in capturing the objective. When the Japanese launched a heavy counterattack that night, he joined the intense fire fight shouting encouragement to his men and effectively employing hand grenades against the hostile troops. By his excellent defensive plan and indomitable fighting spirit, he contributed materially to the seizure and defense of this key enemy position. His inspiring leadership and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.