Navy Federal Credit Union

Sergeant Emmette B. Martin (ASN: RA-15250403), United States Army, was interned as a Prisoner of War during the Korean War after he was captured on 27 November 1950 and was held until his release on 31 August 1953.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Sergeant

    Batallion:

    65th Engineer Combat Battalion

    Division:

    25th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    November 27, 1950

    Headquarters, EIGHTH U.S. Army, Korea, General Orders No. 119 (March 5, 1951)

    The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant Emmett Boone Martin (ASN: RA-15250403), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Medical Aidman with the 65th Engineer Combat Battalion, 25th Infantry Division. Sergeant Martin distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces near Ipsok, Korea, on 27 November 1950. On that date, Sergeant Martin was wounded by an enemy mortar shell burst near his position. Although there was increasing enemy pressure from all sides and heavy small-arms and mortar fire, he, despite his painful wounds, continued to administer first aid and to evacuate casualties to a position of safety. The enemy continued to exert heavy pressure, and he was told that he was to withdraw with his company. Heedless of the immediate danger of the savage enemy attack, he refused to withdraw with his company, stating that there were too many wounded to leave behind. He remained with the wounded, who were unable to withdraw, treating and comforting them. Shortly thereafter the position was overrun. The extraordinary heroism displayed by Sergeant Martin on this occasion reflects the greatest credit on himself and is in keeping with the high traditions of the military service.