On that day, while Saratoga was anchored off Battery Park in New York Harbor, Apprentice Robert Lee Robey fell overboard and was swept away by a strong tidal current.

Hayden witnessed the event and, when it seemed that Buchanan needed assistance, he too jumped overboard and helped keep Robey afloat until all three men were picked up by the ship's boat.

[1] Hayden's official Medal of Honor citation reads: On board the U.S. Training Ship Saratoga.

On the morning of 15 July 1879, while the Saratoga was anchored off the Battery, in New York Harbor, R. L. Robey, apprentice, fell overboard.

Stripping himself, Hayden stood coolly watching the 2 in the water, and when he thought his services were required, made a dive from the rail and came up alongside them and rendered assistance until all 3 were picked up by a boat from the ship.