"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while attached to a special task group during the amphibious assault on Italy in September 1943. While attached to the staff of Commander United States Naval Forces, Northwest African Waters, Lieutenant Commander Fairbanks ably assisted in formulating important plans for mixed Allied operations of a highly technical and complex nature. Later, while temporarily assigned to the staff of a Naval Task Group Commander, he accompanied the combat units which successfully executed these plans and contributed materially to their accomplishment. During the occupation of the Island of Ventotene, he courageously led a landing party ashore and established important picket positions while exposed to enemy rifle fire, thereby contributing greatly to the successful accomplishment of this mission. The exceptional courage and fearless leadership under fire displayed by Lieutenant Commander Douglas E. Fairbanks, Jr., U.S. Naval reserve, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval Service."
