Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Commander

Unit:

Fighting Squadron Ten (VF-10), U.S.S. Enterprise (CV-6) (Fighting Squadron Ten (VF-10), U.S.S. Enterprise (CV-6))

Awarded on:

July 13th, 1944

Citation:
"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Pilot of a Fighter Airplane and Flight Leader in Fighting Squadron Ten (VF-10), attached to the U.S.S. Enterprise (CV-6), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Saipan in June 1944. An aggressive and fearless pilot, Commander Martin conducted the initial fighter sweep against Saipan on 11 June and, on the following day, led an aerial strike against enemy shipping in the vicinity of Saipan, destroying a large enemy tanker and severely damaging a transport and large cargo ship. Pressing home a fierce attack on gun positions on Saipan on 13 June, he was shot down after successfully bombing his target and, landing in the water only one hundred fifty yards from shore, seized the opportunity to study vital enemy installations at close range in order to obtain valuable strategic information despite his precarious situation and his constant exposure to rifle fire from shore. By his brilliant direction of air attacks against enemy positions and gun emplacements while serving as air coordinator, Commander Martin contributed essentially to our successful operations against this important Marianas base, and his superb airmanship, courageous initiative and exceptional daring throughout reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service."

Commander Fast Carrier Task Force: Serial 0247 (July 13, 1944).

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Commander

Unit:

Composite Squadron (Night) Ninety, U.S.S. Enterprise (CV-6) (Composite Squadron (Night) Ninety, U.S.S. Enterprise (CV-6))

Citation:
"For exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of Composite Squadron (Night) Ninety, attached to the U.S.S. Enterprise (CV-6), operating in the Iwo, Okinawa and Japan Areas from 5 January to 15 May 1945. Thoroughly experienced and skilled in the technique of instrument flying and the tactical applications of airborne radar, Commander Martin continued his invaluable service in the conduct of night carrier operations during the final phase of our prolonged aerial offensive against the Japanese. Superbly confident himself of the effectiveness of this type of warfare, he inspired in the officers and men of his command a unique, moral and physical courage which dissipated the natural aversion to recognized hazards and enabled his squadron to face and counter treacherous suicide tactics of hostile pilots and to screen our vital carrier forces during operations which led to the final defeat of the enemy. His distinguished service during the latter phase of our sustained drive toward the Japanese Empire and his previous successful efforts in perfecting the training and combat methods necessary to accelerate and intensify aggressive aerial operations reflect the highest credit upon Commander Martin and the United States Naval Service."