The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal John Hammond (ASN: 114213), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company C, 165th Infantry Regiment, 42d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Landres-et-St. Georges, France, 15 October 1918. Having observed four liaison men killed in an attempt to reach headquarters with an important position sketch, Corporal Hammond volunteered to attempt the mission. He not only successfully reached his destination, but also returned to his post, the entire exploit being under most severe fire.