The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major Manuel Oliver Martinez (MCSN: 0-67305), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron ONE HUNDRED SIXTY-ONE (HMM-161), in connection with operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. On 18 September 1965, Major Martinez was serving as a Division Leader in a detachment of seven Marine helicopters assigned to a search and clear operation with the 101st Army Airborne Division and air elements of Task Force Alpha. Undaunted by the savage hostile automatic weapons fire that forced the preceding division to wave off, Major Martinez fearlessly landed and discharged troops amid enemy fire so intense that they were pinned down immediately. As he was leaving the area, an accompanying helicopter sustained severe damage and its pilot was forced to land on a nearby, fire swept rice paddy. Without hesitation, Major Martinez followed his comrades to the ground, skillfully maneuvering the aircraft as his crewmen directed fire on Viet Cong guerrillas concealed in a tree line about fifty yards away. With keen assessment of the dangerous situation and great presence of mind, Major Martinez directed two airborne helicopters to hit the enemy positions, relieving pressure on the downed crewmen and permitting their lift off and escape from the hazardous site. His gallant rescue under combat conditions that greatly endangered his own life and damaged his aircraft prevented certain death to or capture of his fellow Marines. By his superior aeronautical skill, devoted concern for the welfare of others and unfaltering dedication to duty throughout, Major Martinez upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.