The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Platoon Sergeant Walter C. Hay (MCSN: 296962), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company B, First Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division during action against enemy Japanese forces at Tarawa, Gilbert Islands on 22 November 1943. With his platoon position flanked by shattering hostile machine gun fire during a fierce night attack, platoon Sergeant Hay voluntarily risked his life in a valiant attempt to wipe out the emplacement and, unhesitatingly proceeding across the open fire swept area, succeeded in destroying the Japanese weapon and entire crew with well-placed hand grenades. By his daring initiative, his fearless determination and cool courage in the face of grave peril, Platoon Sergeant Hay contributed materially to the success of our forces in capturing this vital hostile stronghold and his zealous devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.