James Webb Cook Hayes (March 20, 1856 – July 26, 1934) was an American businessman and soldier.

He co-founded a forerunner of Union Carbide,[1][2] served in three wars, and received the Medal of Honor.

Years later, after Crook became famous in the west as a hunter and Indian fighter, the two made annual trips into the Rocky Mountains for a hunt of big game.

Just hours after landing there, he led a rescue party to free captured men at Vigan Island.

During World War I, Hayes was promoted to colonel and first served as a special agent for the State Department in France and later held an administrative assignment on the Italian front.

Hayes was a member of the Ohio Commandery of the Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States by right of the service of his uncle, Lieutenant Colonel J.T.

Citation: Pushed through the enemy's lines alone, during the night, from the beach to the beleaguered force at Vigan, and returned the following morning to report the condition of affairs to the Navy and secure assistance.