The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private Paul E. Hayden (ASN: 20380299), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 20 December 1944, near ***, Belgium. Private Hayden was a member of an advance machine gun crew during an attack on this strongly defended town when the left flank assault company was held up by the fire from an enemy cannon and supporting machine gun elements. Casualties were becoming heavy when Private Hayden, realizing the seriousness of the situation, picked up his machine gun and rushed to a forward position in an effort to draw fire from his comrades engaged in a flanking movement. While engaged in this gallant and unselfish act, Private Hayden was killed. Due to his supreme sacrifice, his company was able to take advantage of the diversion he created in its flanking assault on the enemy. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.