The Secretary of Defense of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Defense Distinguished Service Medal to Admiral Thomas Bibb Hayward (NSN: 0-498206), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service contributing to national security and defense, in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States, as Chief of Naval Operations, from February 1981 through June 1982. In this highest level of Navy leadership and responsibility, Admiral Hayward consistently demonstrated the keenest sense of national security priorities. He was singularly effective in facilitating just pay and compensation for military personnel, and in initiating critical building programs to enhance essential naval warfare capabilities. Possessing a unique grasp of national security issues and a superb appreciation for the capabilities and limitations of naval and military forces in affecting international political events, he was an invaluable member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and advisor to the Secretary of the Navy, the Secretary of Defense, and the President of the United States. The distinctive accomplishments of Admiral Hayward culminate a distinguished career in the service of his country and reflect great credit upon himself, the United States Navy, and the Department of Defense.






