The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 8, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Specialist Fourth Class Michael J. Hayes, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company C, 2d Battalion (Airmobile), 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam on 6 October 1969. When his platoon was ambushed by heavy rocket and small arms fire from an unknown size enemy force and was unable to maneuver, Specialist Fourth Class Hayes exposed himself to mark his platoon’s position with smoke for the aerial rocket artillery. When a section of his platoon moved forward of its defensive line and was immediately pinned down by intense fire, he exposed himself to the fire as he moved to a hazardous position and placed down a heavy base of fire until the enemy fire abated and the other men could maneuver. Specialist Four Hayes also personally evacuated two wounded men to the rear then returned to his position and continued to deliver accurate fire on the enemy until severely wounded by enemy rocket fire. His gallant action is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.