The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Robert L. Martin, Jr., United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 75th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 16 January 1945, in Belgium. After his company had driven across the Salm River to Braunlauf, Captain Martin discovered a gap of 1,000 yards between his company and the unit on his left. He went out on a personal reconnaissance under heavy artillery and mortar fire, contacted the adjacent unit and made it possible to close the gap. During this reconnaissance he was stopped by an enemy machinegun nest but with indomitable courage he outflanked this strong point, attacked it, captured three gunners and went on to complete his mission. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.