The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Jacky E. Hays (MCSN: 599479), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Rocket Gunner of Company D, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 23 April 1951. When his rocket launcher was struck by hostile fire and rendered inoperable during the early stages of a violent attack on the company defense perimeter by a large enemy force, Private First Class Hays bravely exposed himself to fierce hostile automatic weapons and small arms fire to defend his position with a pistol and hand grenades. Although suffering from severe concussion when literally blown from his position by enemy hand grenade explosions on five separate occasions, he gallantly crawled back and resumed the defense until finally ordered to seek medical attention. By his aggressive fighting spirit and fortitude, Private First Class Hays served to inspire all who observed him and materially aided in the defense of the strategic ground. His marked courage, initiative and unswerving devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.