The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Second Lieutenant (Air Corps) Kenneth D. Hamilton (ASN: 0-798798), United States Army Air Forces, for distinguished and meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in operations against the Ploesti Oil Refineries of Rumania on 1 August 1943. The courage, fighting spirit and superb airmanship displayed by Lieutenant Hamilton of the 513th Bombardment Squadron, 376th Bombardment Group, NINTH Air Force, in a difficult and hazardous mission of great importance was such as to win the admiration and respect of every member of the Allied forces. Sweeping in at a level just above ground, he and his comrades smashed their way through one of the heaviest anti-aircraft barrages in the world to bomb, strafe, and largely destroy the major fuel source of the Axis war machine. This was accomplished after one of the longest journeys into enemy territory ever attempted by a massed force of heavy bombers. His achievement in completing the task assigned against almost impossible odds constitutes an important step toward an Allied victory over the enemy. His outstanding courage and dedication to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.