The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Elmer C. Martino (ASN: 33354911), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Medical Department, 222d Infantry Regiment, 42d Infantry Division, in action on 15 March 1945 in the Hardt Mountains, France. When fire from an enemy tank wounded twelve men in his company, Private Martino, an aid man, advanced across open ground swept by intense enemy fire and brought the men to safety one by one. He then organized his own clearing station, administering first aid until litter bearers were able to advance through the heavy fire. Private Martino’s extreme courage and gallantry in the face of fire saved the twelve men from possible death or capture.