Battle of Kula Gulf
Honolulu operated out of Espiritu Santo in early 1943 in an attempt to engage the "Tokyo Express" and received Bronze Star Medal with Combat "V" for his service. During May, she engaged in bombardments of New Georgia in the Solomons supporting the landings on Rendova Island on July 4, 1943. Two days later, Hayler led "Honolulu" during the Battle of Kula Gulf, knocking out one enemy destroyer and assisting in the destruction of others. For his service on Rendova and Kula Gulf, Hayler received his second Navy Cross.