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 [then Private First Class] Martin T. Novak (ASN: US-52073211), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Medical Company, [then attached to Company K], 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 24 September 1951 in the vicinity of Satae-ri, Korea. On that date Corporal Novak was a medical aidman attached to a unit which was in defensive positions repulsing fanatical enemy attacks. Throughout the action he assisted the wounded and when the enemy attacks became intense he personally carried many of his wounded comrades to safety. Upon being informed that another unit was in dire need of more aidmen he immediately advanced over the hazardous terrain to the unit’s position and assisted in caring for their wounded. On numerous occasions he voluntarily carried ammunition, under hostile fire, to the front line positions. His initiative and devotion to duty were a great asset to the friendly units and were an inspiration to all who observed him. The gallantry in action displayed by Corporal Novak on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.