The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Aviation Chief Machinist’s Mate James Clyde Hammond, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Engineering Chief charged with the responsibility of maintaining certain planes of his squadron in readiness for combat, on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, from 18 September to 7 November 1942. Handicapped by extremely difficult and dangerous conditions, Aviation Chief Machinist’s Mate Hammond effectively serviced aircraft with a small engineering crew. On one occasion, after a severe hostile shelling, he and his crew, although exposed to fierce artillery fire, labored to salvage undamaged parts from wrecked planes. Working day and night in the midst of exploding bombs and bursting shells, their task made doubly difficult by inclement weather and lack of materials, they successfully reconstructed complete aircraft which launched effective attacks against the Japanese. Often working 24 hours a day to make possible the extensive flight schedule maintained by his squadron, Aviation Chief Machinist’s Mate Hammond, by his exceptional technical ability and courageous leadership, contributed in large measure to the success and efficiency of operations in this area. His gallant actions and selfless devotion to duty, without regard for his own safety, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.