The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Infantry) James Henry Hayes (ASN: 0-24646), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the 2d Battalion, 317th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 4 October 1944, in France. While subjected to extremely intense enemy artillery, mortar, and machine gun fire, he personally assisted in the direction of the offensive. Armed with a submachine gun he rose upright and personally engaged in a fire fight which inspired his men to destroy the enemy. By his fearless leadership he proved an inspiring example to his men, and his personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.