Robert W. Hayler
Robert Ward Hayler | |
|---|---|
VADM Robert W. Hayler, USN | |
| Born | June 7, 1891 Sandusky, Ohio, US |
| Died | November 17, 1980 (aged 89) Carmel, California, US |
| Buried | |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Branch | United States Navy |
| Years of service | 1914 – 1952 |
| Rank | Vice admiral |
| Service number | 0-8611 |
| Commands | Sixth Naval district Cruiser Division Twelve USS Honolulu (CL-48) Naval Torpedo Station Alexandria USS Melvin (DD-335) USS Howard (DD-179) |
| Battles / wars | Veracruz Expedition World War I World War II |
| Awards | Navy Cross (3) Silver Star Legion of Merit (2) Bronze Star Medal (2) Navy Commendation Medal |
Robert Ward Hayler (June 7, 1891 – November 17, 1980) was a highly decorated officer in the United States Navy with the rank of vice admiral. He was a three time recipient of the Navy Cross, the Navy's second highest military decoration for valor. Two of these awards were received while serving as the commanding officer of the light cruiser USS Honolulu at Guadalcanal and Kula Gulf and the third as a rear admiral and Commander, Cruiser Division Twelve during the Battle of Surigao Strait in October 1944.
Following the Second World War, Hayler remained in the Navy and served as commandant, Sixth Naval District and president, Permanent General Court Martial for the Ninth Naval District until his retirement in July 1953. He was also the namesake of USS Hayler (DD-997).