The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Lieutenant Colonel Webb Cook Hayes, United States Army, for most distinguished gallantry on 4 December 1899, while serving with 31st Infantry, U.S. Volunteers, in action at Vigan, Luzon, Philippine Islands. Lieutenant Colonel Hayes pushed through the enemy’s lines alone, during the night, from the beach to the beleaguered force at Vigan, and returned the following morning to report the condition of affairs to the Navy and secure assistance.