Alfonso Rodriguez-Martinez

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Alfonso Rodriguez-Martinez (US50104347), Corporal, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 65th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division. On 11-12 December 1951, elements of Company E assaulting a well-entrenched foe on Hill 168 near Toyon-ni, Korea, were subjected to heavy hostile small arms and automatic weapons fire. Corporal Rodriguez-Martinez, a machine gunner, immediately selected a position from which he could deliver maximum fire into the enemy positions, and from this advantageous but exposed location, he laid down such an effective volume of fire that his comrades were able to continue their advance. Later during the engagement, due to the enemy’s numerical superiority, the friendly forces were ordered to withdraw. Choosing to remain in his position, Corporal Rodriguez-Martinez continued to fire this weapon with devastating results, forcing the enemy to concentrate all their fire power upon him. With such a lethal hail of fire directed at him, he was struck and mortally wounded. His courage and determination were instrumental in the safe withdrawal of his platoon and undoubtedly saved the lives of many of his comrades. Corporal Rodriguez-Martinez’s selfless gallantry reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.