Fred JOE Hayes

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Fred Joe Hayes (1822754), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Scout with Company D, First Battalion, Twenty-Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 13 April 1968, during an operation along the canal east of HUE, elements of the First Battalion came under heavy enemy automatic weapons, small arms and rocket fire and temporarily pinned down… From his company’s position overlooking the canal, Sergeant Hayes observed several wounded Marines lying in the open terrain and unhesitatingly volunteered to lead a rescue team across the fire-swept area to assist the casualties. Carefully selecting an approach route, he crossed the canal and, providing covering fire for his companions, continued to advance until he reached the wounded Marines. Repeatedly exposing himself to heavy enemy fire, Sergeant Hayes rendered first aid, directed the activities of his companions and assisted in moving the casualties to covered positions. While aiding a wounded Marine, he himself was seriously wounded by enemy fire. Despite his serious injury, Sergeant Hayes continued to render medical aid until he succumbed to his wound. His heroic actions inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in saving the lives of several Marines. By his extraordinary courage, bold initiative and selfless devotion to duty, Sergeant Hayes upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.