The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Gunner’s Mate Second Class Lewis N. Wabel (NSN: 7530617), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Gun Captain of a 20-mm. gun on an LCI Gunboat during the rocket and gun bombardment Leyte, Philippine Islands on 20 October 1944, while leading in the first assault wave of an invasion force. When a misfire occurred in the heated breach of his gun and a full magazine was left in place by the crew, Gunner’s Mate Second Class Wabel coolly stepped forward and, disregarding his own personal safety, unshipped the magazine and threw it over the side. The misfire exploded in his face inflicting severe powder burns and lacerations. By his action in the face of danger he averted a serious explosion and probably saved the lives of his gun crew and others nearby. His courage and conduct were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.