William K. Martin

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the AIR MEDAL (Bronze Star for the First Award) to

"For heroic achievement in aerial flight while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 364, Marine Aircraft Group Sixteen, First Marine Aircraft Wing in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. Late on the night of 2 January 1969, Sergeant Martin launched as an Aerial Gunner aboard a CH-46 transport helicopter assigned the emergency medical evacuation of a seriously wounded Marine from a unit heavily engaged with a hostile force in Quang Nam Province. Undaunted by adverse weather and total darkness which increased the difficulty of identifying the landing zone, located in hazardous terrain surrounded by tall trees, he ably provided clearance information for his pilot during three landing zone approaches, two of which were aborted because of the extremely heavy volume of enemy automatic weapons fire encountered. Alertly observing the source of hostile fire, he reported the precise location of the enemy positions, thereby enabling his aircraft commander to take evasive action and to pinpoint the hostile emplacements for the attacks of supporting gunships. Assisting in embarking the injured man, he then aided in providing clearance data, permitting his CH-46 to lift out of the dangerous area and depart for the nearest medical facility. Sergeant Martin's courage, superior professionalism and unwavering devotion to duty at great personal risk were instrumental in the accomplishment of the hazardous mission and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service."

1stLt. Maurice J. Quinlan	Pilot
1stLt. Larry W. Britton	Copilot
Cpl. Jerry D. Ganney	Crew Chief
Sgt. William K. Martin	Gunner
Cpl. Robert H. Edwards	Gunner