Machinegunner, U.S. 25th Inf. Div., Cpl. Benito Martinez
Fort Hancock, Hudspeth County, Texas
Marker Inscription
(April 21, 1932 - Sept. 6, 1952) Graduated from Fort Hancock High School, May 1951. In Korean War, earned Congressional Medal of Honor in lone 6-hour stand near Satae-Ri, Korea, Sept. 6, 1952, enabling his unit to regain key terrain. He rejected offers of aid; was cited for incredible valor, supreme sacrifice. (1967)
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Benito Martinez grew up in the tiny border town of Fort Hancock, graduating from its high school in 1951 before shipping out to Korea. On September 6, 1952, near Satae-Ri, the young corporal made a lone six-hour stand, refusing offers of rescue so his unit could regain vital ground—an act of valor that cost him his life. He was posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor, the nation's highest military decoration.
Why it matters
Martinez is among the many Mexican American soldiers whose extraordinary sacrifice in Korea earned the Medal of Honor, a lasting testament to service from America's borderlands communities.
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Related people
- · Benito Martinez
Related events
- · Battle near Satae-Ri, Korea
Themes & tags
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