A corporal at the time, Martinez responded to a call to reinforce 1st Platoon, which was under attack by enemy forces. Under fire, Martinez deployed his team in supporting positions for a squad assault.The Navy Cross is the second highest medal awarded to Marines.
He assumed control after his squad leader was wounded. While other Marines tended to the wounded squad leader, Martinez single-handedly assaulted the building and killed four enemy soldiers with a grenade and his rifle.
Here are all medals, and their ranks for each of the services. As a way to remember our heroes this Memorial weekend, let's Google up some stories and post them on our blogs.
