Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Temporary Major

Unit:

"B" Company, 1st Battalion Suffolk Regiment, 8th Infantry Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, British Army

Awarded on:

April 5th, 1945

On 12 October 1944 Major Martin was commanding 'B' Company the left forward company in the attack on Overloon. The task of this company was to establish itself in the Western part of the village ad to mop up all the enemy within the area allotted to the company. Advancing as close as possible to the barrage 'B' Company was soon on its objective, despite accurate enemy mortar fire.
Major Martin throughout the advance and in the house to house fighting was always to the fore controlling his platoons and encouraging his men.

In the village itself, on receiving information that a Panther tank was there, Major Martin seized a P.I.A.T. and rushed forward through enemy mortar fire, and was able to fire one shot at the tank, as it was disappearing round a corner.
Subsequently a Panther tanks was discovered in the outskirts of the village, one of its bogeys having been put out of action by what may have well been a hit from a P.I.A.T. bomb.

Throughout the action Major Martin set an inspiring example of leadership and personal bravery and the success of his company was due in no small measure to his own efforts."