CHULA VISTA, CA, USA U.S. Army
SGT, COMPANY B, 2D BATTALION, 12TH INFANTRY, 2 BCT, FORT CARSON, CO BAGHDAD, IRAQ 06/28/2007
Sergeant Michael J. Martinez joined the U.S. Army after high school because he thought it was the right thing to do. He completed one tour of duty in Iraq and was on his second tour when he was killed on June 28, 2007.
He had served in the Army for three and a half years. He was a member of the 2d Battalion, 12th Infantry regiment, 2d Brigade Combat Team, 2d Infantry Division Fort Carson, Colorado. At the time of his death he was stationed in Baghdad, Iraq. The 2d Division is known as the “Warrior Division” and is so called because of their unit patch.
On June 28, 2007 Michael was the Squad Leader leading a three-vehicle convoy patrol in Southern Baghdad. The convoy was struck by a roadside bomb then ambushed by rockets and small arms fire. Michael and four other soldiers were killed and seven were wounded during the fire fight.
Sergeant Michael J. Martinez was born in Chula Vista California. He attended Kellogg Elementary School, Hilltop Middle School and graduated from Eastlake High School in 2000. Michael was a talented athlete who could play any sport with ease and skill. Michael started playing baseball at an early age with Parkview Little League. He also played with the Senior League. At Eastlake High School he played both football and baseball. He is remembered by those who knew him as a hero with a beautiful smile, love for life, friends, family and especially for his son Landon Michael. Other loved family members included his wife Ashley, two brothers and his grandparents.
Sgt. Michael J. Martinez was awarded the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal,Global War on Terrorism, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Combat Infantry Badge, Expert Rifle Badge. California’s governor Arnold Schwartzenager directed that state and US flags be flown at half-mast in Michael’s honor.