The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Master Sergeant Paul A. Martin, Jr. (MCSN: 330562), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as First Sergeant of Company A, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 24 April 1951. When part of his company came under intense hostile mortar fire and sustained heavy casualties while acting as rear guard for the battalion in its attack to break out of an enemy encirclement, Master Sergeant Martin unhesitatingly remained behind to aid in the evacuation of the wounded. Courageously exposing himself to the vicious hail of enemy mortar and machine gun fire, he administered first aid to one wounded Marine and helped carry him to safety across an open, fire-swept valley and up the exposed face of a steep hill. By his daring initiative, valiant determination and selfless devotion to duty in the face of heavy odds, Master Sergeant Martin served to inspire all who observed him and thereby upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.