Martinez, Joseph Raul

Date of birth:: (San Germán/Puerto Rico, United States)
Nationality:: American (1776 - present, Republic)

Biography

Private First Class Martinez destroyed a German Infantry unit and tank in Tunis by providing heavy artillery fire, saving his platoon from being attacked in the process. He received the Distinguished Service Cross from General George S. Patton, thus becoming the first Puerto Rican recipient of said military decoration.

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Distinguished Service Cross (DSC)

Period:: Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:: Private 1st Class
Unit:: 335th Infantry Regiment

Citation:
"Private First Class Joseph R. Martinez, United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy, in action against enemy forces in March 1943. Private First Class Martinez's intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army."

Headquarters, Seventh U.S. Army, General Orders No. 25 (1943)
Action Date: Mar-43

Sources

- Military Times Hall of Valor