The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Martin L. Hofemann (ASN: 37549892), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 36th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Italy on 21 January 1944. Private First Class Hofemann was a member of an infantry unit ordered to cross river and attack the enemy in Italy. The attack was initiated under heavy enemy artillery, mortar, and machinegun fire which continued throughout the operation. Advancing in the face of overwhelming enemy fire, he and the others crossed the river and moved valiantly toward their objective. While doing so they met their deaths. Their magnificent courage and devotion to duty in the face of vastly superior odds served as an outstanding example to all who witnessed this action.