World War II Honoree
World War II Veteran
Robert Ward Hayler
Branch of Service
U.S. Navy
Hometown
Sandusky, Ohio
Honored By
Pearl Thomas
Served as Commanding officer of light cruiser USS Honolulu in July 1942. Participated in the Aleutian Islands campaign, Battle of Guadalcanal, Battle of Tassafaronga, Battle of Kula Gulf, Bougainville campaign, Battle of Saipan, Battle of Tinian, Battle of Leyte Gulf, and Battle of Surigao Strait. Promoted to Rear Admiral. Received the Navy Cross with two 5/16" Gold Stars, Silver Star, Legion of Merit with Combat "V" and one 5/16" Gold Star, Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Unit Commendation, American Campaign Medal, American Defense Service Medal, Philippine Liberation Medal with two stars, WWII Victory Medal, and Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with one silver and two bronze 3/16" service stars.