The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Martin C. Colleran (MCSN: 670051), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Squad Leader of a Rifle Platoon of Company H, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces north of Chinhung-ni, Korea, on 6 November 1950. Charged with the mission of dislodging the enemy from well-entrenched positions along the ridge crest, and of protecting his company’s flank during a raid against an estimated hostile force of two-company strength, reinforced with heavy machine guns, Sergeant Colleran promptly led his squad forward under heavy and accurate enemy small arms and machine gun fire, expertly directing and controlling the squad’s fire during the advance. With casualties mounting in his ranks, he deployed his squad through extremely rugged terrain and succeeded in annihilating the enemy outposts. Employing the remnants of his squad in a hasty defense, he resisted two flanking attacks in force, killing over twenty enemy soldiers and maintaining his position, despite heavy hostile mortar, machine gun, grenade and small arms fire, until ordered to rejoin the raiding force. Subsequently providing effective protection for his company’s rear elements, Sergeant Colleran, by his inspiring and aggressive leadership, cool courage and heroic efforts, contributed materially to the success attained by the raiding party. His staunch devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.