The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major Martin F. Rockmore (MCSN: 0-5895), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Operations Officer of the First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in combat against enemy Japanese forces during the seizure and occupation of Cape Gloucester, New Britain Island, 26 and 28 December 1943. When an assault company was pinned down by concentrated hostile machine-gun fire from entrenched pillboxes, Major Rockmore courageously advanced with three tanks and, assisted by infantrymen, completely overcame Japanese resistance. Fearlessly leading his infantryman and two tanks to the front when the company’s advance was again retarded by bitter hostile opposition, he daringly pressed forward under intense enemy machine-gun and mortar fire, charged the Japanese positions, and completely destroyed all troops in that area. Major Rockmore’s brilliant leadership, aggressive fighting spirit and inspiring devotion to duty in the face of grave peril were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.