The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Turret Captain First Class Peter Paul Martinek, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action during the attack on the Light Cruiser U.S.S. MARBLEHEAD (CL-12), by Japanese enemy bombers on 4 February 1942. Promptly upon the destruction of his station by a bomb explosion, Martinek, already sprinkled with powder, entered the wrecked and burning quarters for Chief Petty Officers, and despite complete darkness and smoke, removed exposed powder in the path of the fire, disposing of it over the side. Furthermore, he displayed initiative and skill in the fighting of fires and rescuing of the wounded. These qualities together with an utter disregard for his own personal safety contributed greatly to the saving of the ship for further war service and the saving of many lives. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.