(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Pharmacist’s Mate Second Class Vernard A. Hayes, Jr., United States Navy, was awarded the Silver Star for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action on 27 November 1943, while serving as a Corpsman attached to the SECOND Marine Division at Tarawa. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.