RANK AND ORGANIZATION: Corporal, U. S. Army, Company A, 27th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division.
BORN: 21 March 1931.
ENTERED SERVICE AT: Fort Hancock, Texas.
PLACE AND DATE: Satae-ri, Korea, 6 September 1952.
CITATION:
Corporal Benito Martinez, machine-gunner with Company A, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy near Satae-ri, Korea, on 6 September 1952. While manning a forward listening post forward of the manning line of resistance, his position was attacked by a hostile force of reinforced company strength. In the bitter fighting which ensued, the enemy infiltrated the defense perimeter and realizing that encirclement was imminent, Corporal Martinez elected to remain at his post in an attempt to stem the onslaught. In a daring defense, he raked the attacking troops with crippling fire, inflicting numerous casualties. Although contacted by sound power phone several times, he insisted that no attempt be made to rescue him because of the danger involved. Soon thereafter, the hostile forces rushed the emplacement, forcing him to make a limited withdrawal with only an automatic rifle and pistol to defend himself. After a courageous 6-hour stand and shortly before dawn, he called for the last time, stating that the enemy was converging on his position. His magnificent stand enabled friendly elements to reorganize, attack and regain the key terrain. Corporal Martinez's incredible valor and supreme sacrifice reflect lasting glory upon himself and are in keeping with the honored traditions of the military service.
*Posthumous Award
