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 Corporal Woodford V. Martin (ASN: 36432076), United States Army, for gallantry in action on 20 September 1944, near ****, Holland. Corporal Martin, Assistant Squad Leader, Company G, 3d Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, exhibited dominant leadership when he led his squad in disorganizing and defeating an enemy platoon. He was on a mission to establish a road block for a defensive position when he encountered enemy resistance from an enemy strongpoint 150 yards to his front. Corporal Martin skillfully deployed his squad as skirmishers and then moved to the front of the squad formation and directed their fire in such an effective manner as to disorganize the enemy resistance. Corporal Martin threw two grenades into the enemy position and emptied his sub-machine gun into their formation. As a result of his action his squad was able to reach the roadblock and organize a defensive position. Corporal Martin’s perseverance, devotion to duty, dominant leadership and great personal courage reflected the highest traditions of the Airborne Forces of the United States Army.