Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) John B. Hammond (ASN: 0-2200008), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company F, 2d Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 21 August 1950, near Chongpyong-dong, Korea, the enemy launched a series of probing attacks in an effort to determine friendly dispositions. During the ensuing two days, while these probing attacks continued, Lieutenant Hammond repeatedly exposed himself to hostile observation and fire to control his men and prevent premature firing which would disclose friendly positions. When a large hostile force launched a full-scale attack on 24 August 1950, friendly forces, remaining concealed until the enemy had advanced to within a few yards of their positions, opened fire which decimated the enemy ranks. Lieutenant Hammond’s conspicuous courage and notable tactical skill reflect great credit upon himself and uphold the highest traditions of the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Infantry), [then Second Lieutenant]

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    27th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    25th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    July 28, 1950
    Headquarters, 25th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 301 (November 5, 1950)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry), [then Second Lieutenant] John B. Hammond (ASN: 0-2200008), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 28 July 1950, near Sangyong-ni, Korea, when the battalion was attacked by numerically superior hostile forces and communications were disrupted, Lieutenant Hammond braved the intense enemy fire to report to the battalion command post for orders. Returning to his platoon, he encouraged his men, directed their fire, and inspired the platoon to repel three enemy attacks and thereby successfully secure the battalion left flank. Lieutenant Hammond’s courageous leadership and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.