The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Martin L. V. Merchant (ASN: 0-1313113), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a member of Company F, 2d Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division in Korea. On 27 July 1950, Lieutenant Merchant was in charge of the rear guard, which, under constant enemy artillery, mortar and small arms fire, was covering the withdrawal of the 27th Regimental Combat Team near Yongdong, Korea. With utter disregard for his personal safety, Lieutenant Merchant deployed his troops in such a manner that the entire combat team was able to withdraw in an orderly manner with a minimum of casualties. Lieutenant Merchant’s gallant leadership reflects great credit upon himself and is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.