Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Medal of Honor

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Corporal

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    187th Airborne Regimental Combat Team

    Division:

    11th Airborne Division

    Action Date:

    August 14, 1952

    Department of the Army, General Orders No. 63 (August 17, 1953)

    The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (Posthumously) to Corporal Lester Hammond, Jr. (ASN: 16291489), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond the call of duty while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 187th Airborne Regimental Combat Team, in action against enemy aggressor forces at Kumwha, Korea, on 14 August 1952. Corporal Hammond was a member of a six-man reconnaissance patrol which had penetrated approximately 3,500 yards into enemy-held territory. Ambushed and partially surrounded by a large hostile force, the small group opened fire, then quickly withdrew up a narrow ravine in search of protective cover. Despite a wound sustained in the initial exchange of fire and imminent danger of being overrun by the numerically superior foe, he refused to seek shelter and, remaining in an exposed place, called for artillery fire to support a defensive action. Constantly vulnerable to enemy observation and action, he coordinated and directed crippling fire on the assailants, inflicting heavy casualties and repulsing several attempts to overrun friendly positions. Although wounded a second time, he remained steadfast and maintained his stand until mortally wounded. His indomitable fighting spirit set an inspiring example of valor to his comrades and, through his actions, the onslaught was stemmed, enabling a friendly platoon to reach the beleaguered patrol, evacuate the wounded, and effect a safe withdrawal to friendly lines. Corporal Hammond’s unflinching courage and consummate devotion to duty reflect lasting glory on himself and uphold the finest traditions of the military service.