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 Van Wyk (ASN: 36460198), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company M, 3d Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands. In Manila on 8 February 1945, during an intense enemy mortar barrage supported by grazing machine gun fire, Private Van Wyk, a company messenger, was wounded in the arm. However, he refused to leave his post, and when further casualties were caused by hostile mortar fire, he voluntarily left a covered position and crossed the impact area in order to render first aid to a seriously wounded soldier. His prompt assistance was instrumental in saving the injured man’s life. Then, Private Van Wyk courageously rendered assistance to two more casualties, helping to carry them out of the zone of fire over difficult swampy terrain to the battalion aid station. Private Van Wyk was fatally wounded a few days later in Manila. 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.