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 Captain (Infantry) Martin Coker (ASN: 0-1310069), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters, 1st Battalion, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 26 November 1950 in the vicinity of Kujang-dong, Korea. On that date the enemy attacked the 23d Infantry Regimental Command Post in great force and succeeded in overrunning and capturing the entire installation. The Regimental Commander and his staff moved to the command post of the 1st Battalion in order to organize a counterattack. Captain Coker volunteered to lead the counterattacking forces, composed of a 75-mm. recoilless rifle platoon and elements of the Regimental Headquarters Company. During the night attack which followed, he skillfully led his troops, personally supervising each phase of the assault. Moving from one assault element to another, he encouraged and inspired his men by his own fearless example. As a result of his daring leadership his force succeeded in retaking the regimental command post area and driving the enemy away from the positions. During this engagement Captain Coker was mortally wounded. The gallantry and inspirational leadership displayed by Captain Coker reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.