AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Desert Storm
MODEL:  AH-1W

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Randall W. Hammond, United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as AH-1W Attack Helicopter Commander and Division Leader, Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 367, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force in Southwest Asia, on 29 and 30 January 1991. During 2 days of intensive aerial combat against superior mechanized enemy forces, Captain Hammond displayed exceptional aeronautical skill and bravery while leading a flight of three attack helicopters against the first Iraqi advance onto Saudi Arabian soil. When U.S. Marine forces at Uhn Jhul were unexpectedly attacked by an Iraqi armored battalion, he led the flight into an unknown combat situation under low light level ambient conditions to provide fire support for the First Light Armored Infantry Battalion. Captain Hammond flew 12.5 hours while relentlessly attacking enemy armored vehicles, providing critical overhead illumination, coordinating fire support, and extricating friendly forces from a perilous engagement. Under his direction, the flight aggressively advanced forward of friendly positions through withering Iraqi fire to first blunt and then repulse advancing enemy armor elements. Because of his diligent efforts, he contributed significantly to the defeat of the Iraqi attack and achieved the first enemy tank kill by Marine Corps helicopter. Captain Hammond's dauntless courage under fire, skillful airmanship, and steadfast devotion to duty reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. The Combat Distinguishing Device is authorized.