The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Lieutenant Colonel Charles H. Hayes (MCSN: 0-4554), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States in a position of great responsibility from 9 to 20 August 1942. By his careful planning and skillful execution, Lieutenant Colonel Hayes completed in a most efficient manner the airfield on Guadalcanal which had been started by the Japanese and he also established and directed the aircraft at that field. From 20 August to 5 September, Lieutenant Colonel Hayes was assigned additional duties as Field Operations Officer and by his sound judgment and thorough appreciation of the local air and ground situation, he contributed immeasurably to the ultimate success of the air operations on Guadalcanal. His courage, skill and leadership were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.