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 (Infantry) McDonald Martin, Jr. (ASN: 0-9582121), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 1st Battalion, 34th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, in action on 6 August 1950 at Yongsan, Korea. Though moving into the attack, his company had not deployed into fighting formations when it suddenly came under heavy enemy fire from front to rear. Utilizing the best possible positions Lieutenant Martin directed the firing of his mortar squad until his position became untenable. During this firing he was seriously wounded. After moving to another position he directed fir and by his personal display of bravery and disregard for safety rallied the men to repulse an attack coming from two directions. Although wounded he volunteered to cross 900 yards of exposed terrain to secure help. When the firing became so intense he had to take cover he remained alone until he heard the approach of a friendly tank. He again exposed himself to enemy fire by going to meet the tank in order to point out his troops so they would not come under tank fire. His display of courage, leadership, and selfless actions reflect the highest credit on Lieutenant Martin and the military service.