Navy Cross, awarded for actions during the World War II.
"The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander Reid Puryear Fiala, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. REMEY (DD-688), in action against the enemy on 24 and 25 October 1944, in action against major units of the enemy Japanese Fleet during the Battle for Surigao Strait, Philippine Islands, on 24 and 25 October 1944. Within United States Destroyer units deployed in a flanking maneuver as tactically disposed PT boats opened fire on a formidable column of Japanese battleship, cruisers and destroyers advancing under cover of darkness towards our waiting forces, Commander Fiala placed the REMEY in an advantageous striking position within close range of the enemy force. Although silhouetted by the illuminating glare of star shells and under fire, he launched his torpedoes with precise timing in the first sudden coordinated attack, surprised the enemy and rendered him vulnerable to the smashing blows of our Naval units. Subsequently retiring without damage from the furious engagements which resulted in the sinking of two Japanese battleships and three destroyers before effective return fire could be brought to bear upon our Task Force, Commander Fiala by his forceful leadership, contributed materially to the decisive defeat of the enemy force. His courage and devotion to duty throughout reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service."
