The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Clayton A. Hayes (ASN: 38694938), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 27 February 1945, in Germany. Private First Class Hayes on his own initiative took two members of his squad and so maneuvered as to bring effective fire on enemy positions forcing them to cease fire. Thus by his heroic and aggressive action, Private First Class Hayes enabled the remainder of his company to advance without casualty. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class Hayes, 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.