The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Armor) Charles Winthrop Hayward (ASN: 0-62495), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Tank Company, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 26 November 1950 in the vicinity of Kunu-ri, Korea. On that date the battalion to which his tank platoon was attached was ordered to withdraw across the Chongchon River. During the withdrawal the enemy attacked the battalion in overwhelming superior numbers and poured a stream of mortar, automatic weapons, and rocket launcher fire against the withdrawing column. Several tanks were hit and disabled by this devastating enemy fire. During the engagement Lieutenant Hayward directed his platoon in such a skillful manner and with such courage and bravery that the withdrawal supported by his few tanks was executed with a minimum of casualties. After his unit had crossed the river with the foot troops, he led his platoon back across the river. With complete unconcern for his personal safety and disregarding the heavy hostile fire still sweeping the area, he gathered wounded soldiers and placed them on his tank. Although his tank was hit by rocket launcher fire he re-crossed the river, bringing all casualties to safety. The gallantry, skillful leadership, and devotion to his wounded comrades displayed by Lieutenant Hayward reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.