(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Harold L. Hays (ASN: 0-169936), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States while serving with Headquarters, 37th Infantry Division during World War II. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Lieutenant Colonel Hays and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army.
Sponsored by:
Awards Received
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Silver Star
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Legion of Merit
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Silver Star
Service:
United States ArmyRank:
Lieutenant Colonel (General Staff Corps)Division:
37th Infantry DivisionAction Date:
June 13, 1945
Headquarters, 37th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 325 (October 4, 1945)The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (General Staff Corps) Harold Hays (ASN: 0-169936), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the Philippine Islands on 13 June 1945. While on a mission of obtaining special information required by his Division Commander, Colonel Hays, Assistant Chief of Staff, accompanied the leading elements of the 145th Infantry Regiment in its drive on Cordon on 13 June 1945. Disregarding the dangers incident to front line activity, Colonel Hays went with the infantry as it victoriously entered the city. Continuing his study of the situation and assisting in the evacuation of wounded, he completed his mission and returned to the Division Command Post to render his report. Clearing the southern limits of Cordon, he continued his progress in a quarter-ton vehicle and, as he was entering Ordioung Pass, was fired upon by Japanese ambush. Realizing the importance of the data previously procured and knowing that information concerning the enemy’s attempt to block the main supply route should be immediately transmitted to the Commanding General, Colonel Hays elected to runt he gauntlet of hostile fire. Proceeding at maximum speed, his vehicle passed safely through the ambush and arrived without further incident at the Division Command Post. During the period of his reconnaissance with the front line elements, Colonel Hays was fired upon by the Japanese on five different occasions. His devotion to duty exemplifies the highest tradition of military service.
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Legion of Merit
Service:
United States ArmyRank:
Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry)Division:
37th Infantry DivisionAction Date:
December 4, 1944 – July 15, 1945
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Harold L. Hays (ASN: 0-169936), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States while serving with Headquarters, 37th Infantry Division at Bougainville, Solomon Islands and Luzon, Philippine Islands, from 4 December 1944 to 15 July 1945. As Assistant Chief of Staff, Colonel Hays devised and improvised personnel policies in preparation for and during the Luzon Campaign. In Bougainville he organized a composite rear echelon and streamlined casualty and strength reporting for expeditious handling of administrative matters in operations to follow. During the rapid advance toward Manila subsequent to the landing at Lingayen Gulf, his exceptional administration of civil affairs matters was of marked importance to operations in populated areas. When large numbers of internees were released from Bilibid Prison in the raging battle for Manila, he established within a few hours a large dormitory and emergency hospital and transported and cared for 1,300 allied personnel. He actively supervised Division military police in the preservation of order in Manila and subsequently established an eminently successful seaside rest area for combat-weary troops. Throughout the Luzon Campaign, he provided administrative liaison with attached guerrilla units to simplify and standardize procedures and improve coordination between organizations. Through his keen insight, tact and aggressive performance of duty, Colonel Hays made a conspicuous contribution to the achievements of the 37th Infantry Division in the liberation of Luzon. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Colonel Hays and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army.