CORPORAL ALFONSO RODRIGUEZ MARTINEZ, US50104347, Infantry, Company "E",
65th Infantry, 3d Infantry Division, United States Army. 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. Entered the military
service from Puerto Rico.
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