The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Jorge Martinez (MCSN: 2341584), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Machine Gunner with Company M, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 28 July 1968, Private First Class Martinez’ platoon was dispatched as a reaction force to assist a friendly unit heavily engaged with a large, well entrenched North Vietnamese Army force near DaNang. Arriving at the beleaguered unit’s position, the Marines rapidly deployed and immediately came under intense enemy automatic weapons and small arms fire that severely wounded the platoon commander. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Private First Class Martinez unhesitatingly left his covered position and fearlessly maneuvered across the fire-swept terrain to an advantageous position. Boldly exposing himself to intense enemy fire, he directed a heavy volume of fire upon the hostile force, enabling a comrade to advance and evacuate the injured platoon commander to a position of relative safety. Steadfastly maintaining his dangerously exposed position, Private First Class Martinez resolutely continued to deliver accurate fire upon the North Vietnamese soldiers until he was mortally wounded. His heroic actions and sincere concern for the welfare of his comrades inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in saving the life of a fellow Marine. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty, Private First Class Martinez upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.