The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant Harold A. Hayes, Jr. (MCSN: 0-8374), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while attached to the Third Battalion, Second Marines, Reinforced, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the invasion of Gavutu, Solomon Islands on August 7 to 9, 1942. During the execution of a very dangerous mission, Second Lieutenant Hayes displayed exemplary courage and skill in leading his men in attacks against strong hostile positions and was the first to enter each cave contacted by his detachment. Maintaining relentless fighting spirit throughout repeated encounters with a desperate foe he destroyed Japanese positions, killed a number of the enemy, and took seven as prisoners thereby achieving success sin the fulfillment of an exacting assignment. His daring and aggressive leadership was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.