The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Cavalry), [then Captain (Infantry] Homer H. Hammond, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a member of the 9th Armored Infantry Battalion, 6th Armored Division, in action against the enemy on 10 November 1944 near Luppy-Bechy, France. As commander of a task force from his battalion, he courageously and skillfully led his troops in the capture of a strongly defended position by a surprise flanking maneuver over extremely difficult terrain. Later, acting on his own initiative, he attempted to obtain the surrender of the demoralized yet still dangerous and treacherous hostile force by entering the enemy lines, at great personal risk, under a flag of truce. The courageous leadership and high degree of initiative exhibited by Major Hammond reflect great credit on himself and the military service.