The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Ernest L. Martinez (ASN: RA-19368444), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company L, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 2 February 1951 in the vicinity of Chipyong-ni, Korea. In an enemy attack made upon Company L, Private Martinez’s platoon succeeded in turning back a charge made upon it. When another company was forced to withdraw, the enemy was in possession of high ground overlooking the platoon’s positions. As Private Martinez’s squad started to withdraw under orders, the enemy attacked gain, supported by fire from the high ground. As the enemy swiftly closed in on the withdrawing squad, Private Martinez immediately turned and engaged the enemy with rifle fire. So effective was his fire and so determined his stand that the enemy’s advance was slowed long enough for the platoon to assume new positions. As he was trying to make his way back to friendly lines, Private Martinez was killed by enemy small arms fire. The gallant conduct displayed by Private Martinez reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.