The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross with Combat “V” to Captain Jonathan A. Hayes, United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as an F-4D Aircraft Commander over North Vietnam on 12 March 1968. On that date, Captain Hayes was scheduled to attack an airfield vital to the defensive posture of the North Vietnamese. Having sustained serious battle damage to intensive ground fire and being unable to attack the primary target due to severe weather conditions, Captain Hayes sought out and attacked a valuable target of opportunity, further exposing himself to serious defensive reactions. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Captain Hayes reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.