The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Joseph W. Martin (ASN: ER-31511886), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company D, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 18 September 1951 in the vicinity of Pia-ri, Korea. On that date he was a machine gunner with Company A which was in defensive positions under continuous mortar fire by a determined hostile force. During this action, Corporal Martin noted a wounded comrade lying in an exposed position. Without hesitation, he left his site of comparative safety to aid his wounded comrade, but was forced to discontinue due to intense hostile fire. Several times, he attempted to reach the side of his wounded comrade but each time was forced to abandon his mission. His valiant efforts in risking his life trying to save that of his comrade were an inspiration to the men of his unit and were instrumental to maintaining their high morale and spirit in defending the hill. The gallantry in action and devotion to duty displayed by Corporal Martin on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.