George A. Martin receives the Silver and Bronze Stars

George A. Martin enlisted in the Army in October 1942. He spent the next 27 weeks in California learning everything there was to know about Army life. In 1943 he went to Fort Benning, Georgia for infantry school and as an officer candidate. In 1944, Martin, now a member of the "Fighting" 69th Infantry Division, shipped out to England. During the war, he saw action in France, Belgium and Germany. The 69th Infantry managed to link up with the Russian forces after the Battle of the Bulge in 1945. After V-E Day, Martin served as a member of the occupation forces until his discharge. During his time in the service, Martin received two commendations --the Silver Star and the Bronze Star. Below are the letters from Headquarters awarding him the commendations.

SUBJECT: Award of Bronze Star Medal.

TO : First Lieutenant George A. Martin, 0549504, Infantry, APO 417, U. S. Army.

CITATION

First Lieutenant George A. Martin (then Second Lieutenant and First Lieutenant), 0549504, Infantry, United States Army, for meritorious service in connections with military operations against the enemy from 15 Decemeber 1944 to 31 March 1945, in the United Kingdom, France, Belgium, and Germany. First Lieutenant Martin, prior to combat, supervised the drawing of signal equipment. The superior manner in which he performed his duties resulted in this battalion being completely equipped to conduct communications in action. Since moving to an active combat sector, First Lieutenant Martin's unceasing efforts have resulted in a superior communication network throughout the battalion. His ability, and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon First Lieutenant Martin, and the armed forces of the United states.

By command of Major General REINHARDT:

/s/

H. PENGELLY

Lt. Col., A. G. D.,

SUBJECT: Award of Silver Star .

TO : First Lieutenant George A. Martin, 0549504, Infantry, APO 417, U. S. Army.

CITATION

First Lieutenant George A. Martin, 0549504, Infantry, United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy, on 8 April 1945, near **** Germany. During the river crossing operations, First Lieutenant Martin, without orders, and with utter disregard for his safety, crawled 200 yards under heavy artillery and harassing small arms fire to establish and repair vital communication lines between the advanced elements of the **** Infantry Combat Team and the Command Post. His initiative and gallant performance of duty enabled the Regimental Commander to direct supporting artillery fire and call for tanks. This resulted in the routing of the enemy, and the securing of a vital main road on which the advance against the enemy was expedited. Throughout the entire operation, First Lieutenant Martin displayed superior qualities of leadership, and courage, reflecting the highest credit upon himself and the army forces of the United States.

By command of Major General REINHARDT:

/s/

H. PENGELLY

Lt. Col., A. G. D.,

Adjutant General.