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) Rudolph A. Martinak (ASN: 0-1040766), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, during July and August 19943. When the enemy subjected his battery to heavy and concentrated shelling, Lieutenant Martinak repeatedly exposed himself this fire to more skillfully direct his platoon’s defense. When his position became untenable, he supervised the destruction of his guns and, by his excellent timing and judgment, led a successful withdrawal. 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.