The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) James McDonald Hayes (ASN: OF-107733), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of Company C, 2d Battalion (Airborne), 502d Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, in the Republic of Vietnam, on 6 October 1968. Captain Hayes distinguished himself while searching for a downed helicopter near the city of Phu Loc, Republic of Vietnam. Captain Hayes’ lead element suddenly came under intensive enemy automatic weapons fire from well-fortified positions. Captain Hayes moved through the heavy fire to personally take command of the lead element. He then directed the retaliatory fire of his men, moving through the area giving words of encouragement to them. Because of his leadership, he and his men finally overran the enemy positions. Captain Hayes then established a defensive perimeter to evacuate the dead and wounded and replenish the exhausted ammunition supply. At this time, the enemy unleashed a barrage of rocket, small arms, and mortar fire on his company’s position. While under attack, Captain Hayes, with complete disregard for his own safety, ran through incoming enemy fire to direct the evacuation of the wounded. On several occasions, he moved the wounded personnel to safety. During the attack, he adjusted helicopter gunship and artillery fire, which eventually silenced the enemy positions. He then personally directed the evacuation of the wounded, giving them words of encouragement and assisting medical personnel in the treatment of the seriously wounded. Captain Hayes’ personal bravery and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.