From Chicago, Illinois, born 3 November 1896, in Louisville Kentucky. Lt. Hays served became a member of the 13th Aero Squadron and remained with the 13th for the entire duration of his service, gaining 6 victories.
His Citation for his Distinguished Service Cross reads as follows:
“For extraordinary heroism in action in the region of Chambley, France, 13 September 1918. Lt. Hays was on of an offensive patrol attacked by seven enemy scouts (Fokker type) that dived dwon on them from the clouds, catching the American patrol in a disadvantageous position. In the course of the combat which followed, both of Lt. Hays’ machine-guns jammed. By an extraordinary effort, he cleared the guns and drove off the adversary. He then observed his flight commander in a dangerous situation with two enemy planes behind him. He attacked and destroyed one and forced the other to withdraw”
Displayed with his uniform are his award documents, cross stitch of his service record, photos of him in uniform, and panel from his SPAD XIII aircraft with “Oscar” painted on the side.
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