The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Field Artillery) John H. Martin (ASN: 01169232), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Battery, 7th Field Artillery Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa, during the period from January to April 1943. When the enemy began infiltrating his unit’s position, Lieutenant Martin, exposing himself to enemy fire, advanced to a point where he could direct an effective concentration of artillery fire on the attacking force. His keen tactical judgment and coolness under heavy enemy fire assisted materially in the ultimate defeat of the enemy. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.