The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Field Artillery) Orville Wells Martin (ASN: 0-12253), United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while Commanding the 68th Armored Field Artillery Battalion, 1st Armored Division, in action against the enemy in Tunisia, North Africa, in 1942. Colonel Martin was commanding a groupment of artillery as part of a large force. While attempting to gain observation of the tactical situation with a view to adjusting artillery fire on anti-tank guns holding up the advance of the force, he was seriously wounded. After receiving only slight first aid treatment he contacted his Executive Officer and, though in great pain, passed on to him all pertinent information regarding the tactical situation. Then in turn he reported to his next two higher headquarters doing likewise. It was approximately three and one-half hours after he was wounded before he reached a medical clearing station. Lieutenant Colonel Martin’s gallant leadership and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Colonel (Field Artillery) Orville Wells Martin (ASN: 0-12253), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Division Artillery Commander, 7th Armored Division, in action in Holland, on 27 October 1944. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Colonel Martin, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.