YankeeJim: I can understand CCC18 simply because if you stick to the rule that the drop is the point of entry into the hazard, no closer to the hole, you can see why it is the way it is. The complaint is with the lie of the drop just like Kia17-that's not real.
I agree with Kia #17, but CCC18 also "can" defy the rules. R-L wind and left side of fairway, the point the ball crosses the hazard can be at a point where the ball could be dropped behind the hazard and no closer to the hole (in line).
In addition most clubs have local rules and establish a "drop zone", of which by memory was also in play for the US Open. (Also is this deemed a lateral hazard? - if so it would explain a drop zone - I have not noticed if they are red stakes).
I fully understand that programming a line directly behind the hazard entry point and the hole would be too difficult, but by establishing standard drop zones would be fairest overall.
As a golfer I cannot remember hitting a ball into a hazard and suffering s stroke and distance penalty. Out of Bounds, yes, water hazard, no.