The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Corps of Engineers) Gerard H. Martin (ASN: 0-2262306), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company A, 2d Engineer Combat Battalion, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 28 November 1950 in the vicinity of Kujang-dong, Korea. On that date his company’s defensive positions were subjected to an overwhelming attack by an enemy force of estimated battalion strength. In the early phases of the engagement, the platoon commanded by Lieutenant Martin was separated from the company and was forced from its positions. Reorganizing his platoon, he fearlessly led a counterattack under intense hostile fire and succeeded in regaining his former positions and commanding ground. Throughout the night his perimeter was attacked repeatedly by the fanatical enemy. With complete disregard for his personal safety he moved about on the fire-swept perimeter, inspiring his men by his intrepid leadership to stand fast. He held his ground under incessant assaults until he was notified that the company could no longer withstand the numerically superior enemy. Voluntarily he held his platoon in its advantageous position on high ground and covered the withdrawal of the company. He then led his platoon to the safety of a nearby village. His inspiring conduct prevented the enemy from overrunning the company and allowed an orderly withdrawal to more tenable positions. The gallantry and high degree of leadership displayed on this occasion by Lieutenant Martin reflect the highest credit upon himself are in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.