The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Mike H. Hayes (ASN: 34803233), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action near ****, France, on 8 November 1944. When his platoon leader and sergeant had become casualties during an attack near ****, Sergeant Hayes, a squad leader, assumed command, reorganized the platoon under very heavy enemy fire of all types, and led it to the successful completion of its mission with a display of dauntless courage and zeal. Under his aggressive leadership, the platoon was able to occupy high ground to the west of the town, capturing two enemy machine guns and two squads of German riflemen. Sergeant Hayes’ quick thinking and unswerving devotion to duty reflect high credit upon his character and training as a soldier.