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), [then First Lieutenant] Martin Joseph Higgins (ASN: 0-1030984), United States Army, for gallantry in action while Commanding Company A, 1st Battalion, 141st Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action from 23 to 31 October 1944, in France. When the 1st Battalion was completely surrounded by hostile troops and isolated from other friendly units, Captain Higgins assumed command of the organization and, despite heavy artillery and mortar fire, skillfully directed his men in establishing a perimeter defense. Although the troops were without food and water and were subjected to a series of strong German attacks, Lieutenant Higgins worked tirelessly and courageously to maintain the morale of his men and, bravely exposing himself to hostile fire, directed elements of the battalion in repelling the attacks with heavy losses to the enemy. After five and a half days of continuous effort he succeeded in arranging for supplies to be dropped by planes, and, when some of the supplies landed in hostile territory, he personally conducted patrols to recover them. During this trying period his courageous and resourceful leadership inspired his men and kept them well-organized and encouraged until help arrived. His actions, without regard for his own safety, reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.