The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Captain (Infantry) James William Haley (ASN: 0-24244), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while Commanding an Infantry Company of the 8th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 6 June 1944, in France. On D-Day, Captain Haley braved withering enemy artillery, machine gun and rifle fire to reach a large group of confused and disorganized troops who congregated behind a sea wall. He calmly organized them while shells were falling in the immediate area and successfully led them across the beach. As leading elements of his own company moved forward, they encountered a mine field which caused heavy casualties. When the balance of his men froze into position and hesitated to go forward, Captain Haley, with complete disregard for his own life, courageously cleared a path and personally led his men through the obstacle. Continuing its advance, the company was pinned down by a hail of machine gun and small arms fire from a stubborn enemy group in a strongly fortified position. Displaying great personal audacity and conspicuous leadership, he once again defied intense fire and, after preparing his company for an assault, he personally led it in a vicious hand-to-hand and bayonet fight, overpowering the resistance and continuing on to reach his objective. The unswerving devotion to duty, determination and valor displayed by Captain Haley exemplify the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 4th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.