The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Dentalman Mark Hayes, Jr., United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Amphibious Tractor Battalion of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 7 November 1950. Serving as a Corpsman in a train guard detail, which was engaged in a fire fight with numerically superior enemy forces, to protect a supply train and in support of a small United States Army signal unit trapped by enemy fire, Dentalman Hayes, hearing the army units call for “Corpsman,” voluntarily and fearlessly attempted to cross an open enemy fire-swept area. Gathering several Marine volunteers about him, he led them across the open field and during this action, one Marine in the party was seriously wounded by enemy small arms fire. Dentalman Hayes with complete disregard for his own personal safety, moved to the side of the wounded Marine, administered first aid and remained with the patient to assist in evacuating him to a covered position. His aggressive actions and coolness under fire were an inspiration to all who observed him and undoubtedly prevented the wounded Marine from receiving further wounds. Dentalman Hayes’ heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.