The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Martin M. Phillips (ASN: 32665038), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with Company M, 143d Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 14 December 1944, in France. After Sergeant Phillips had successfully repulsed a strong assault with his machine gun, inflicting many casualties, the enemy directed heavy artillery fire on the position and renewed the attack. Sergeant Phillips reconnoitered a secondary position in the upper floor of a building a short distance to his rear and, as he returned to his weapon, surprised and killed a German who had infiltrated the friendly lines. After setting up his machine gun in the new position, he courageously moved forward alone in the face of the advancing enemy and, as bullets truck within inches of him, retrieved a supply of ammunition at the old gun position. Although an enemy tank opened fire on the building and shrapnel from direct hits ripped his clothing and damaged his weapon, he continued to fire until the position became untenable. He then covered the withdrawal of his two comrades before moving back himself. By his gallant and aggressive actions, he materially aided his company in reorganizing in new positions and halting the powerful enemy attack. 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, his unit, and the United States Army.