Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Corporal

Unit:

The Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment)

Awarded on:

November 24th, 1939

Citation:
"On the 20th September, 1939, when in command of a road patrol on the Jerusalem -Jaffa Road, Lance-Sergeant Martin showed initiative, energy, and devotion to duty. His patrol, consisting of one rifle section and one mortar detachment in two armoured 30 cwt. lorries, was fired on by rebels from the high ground on both sides of the road from a range of about 150 -yards. The result of this fire was that two men were wounded. Lance-Sergeant Martin then engaged the enemy and arranged that the mortar lorry should return to the billet with the wounded men. He then proceeded on his way, was again fired on, and sent the remaining truck back; ultimately, under continuous fire, he brought his patrol back to its starting point. Having by this time almost run out of ammunition he broke off the engagement and returned to report to his detachment commander. Throughout the action Lance-Sergeant Martin showed personal courage, determination, and leadership, which were an example and encouragement to his men. In a previous action, on the 31st July, 1938, Lance-Sergeant Martin showed similar courage, leadership and determination, in the face of enemy fire and his name was then also brought to the notice of the General Officer Commanding for distinguished conduct."