Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

Remembering the servicemembers who died in the service of their country.

Army Maj. Michael R. Martinez

43, of Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Martinez died near Tal Afar, Iraq, when his UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crashed. He was assigned to 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Carson, Colorado. Died on January 7, 2006.

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"My name is Nicholas Martinez, Mike’s nephew. Every year that goes by I am surprised and taken away by the tremendous outpouring of love and support for my uncle. To me, he’s a genuine hero and angel in my life. Growing up I never really knew my uncle too closely but always loved him as my tough but caring and funny uncle who would come visit from Missouri a few times a year. However I got to know him as he lived in our house for a few months leading up to his deployment. We lived right next to Ft Carson, where he was stationed in 3rd ACR. I will never forget watching my uncle pack his duffel bags the day before he left while we watched “We Were Soldiers.” Losing him was the single worst day in my family, just 3 years after losing our Patriarch Raymond Martinez, whom we lovingly called Dado. I think of my uncle every single day and he is a symbol of strength, courage, and honor that I take with me in my journey through life. I love you uncle."
Nick Martinez of Colorado

"Mike,
Thank you for paying the ultimate sacrifice for our Country. I know you and Uncle Ray are up in heaven watching over us, as you probably are hearing your dad's favorite story of how our Mom's caught us eating worms when our Dad's were stationed in Georgia, Lol! I miss my worm eating buddy, Lol! And I miss you Uncle Ray, I am humbled and honored that you are my family. I wanted to thank you and let you know that you are never forgotten, you and your Dad are my heroes in the sky and I think of you often.. Love you cousin <3"
Theresa Montoya of Albuquerque, NM USA

"I was close friends with Mike in the mid 70's at Ft. Lwood, MO. I even went back to visit after I moved around 76-77. I have pics of us and his brother Dan when we were kids. I lost touch after HS and have looked for him periodically since. I combined some different key words and finally 'found' him. I was shocked to find out my childhood friend had died in Iraq. I was in the Army and retired in '05. I wish I knew we had served together. I am sure we would have gotten together. What a tragic loss. I will miss one of my best friends forever. If Dan sees this, please send me an email at mahanamc@gmail.com

My condolences to the family."
Alan 'Alka' mahan of Sierra Vista, AZ

"To the family of:Michael R. Martinez
I am so sorry for the loss of your love one. My heart cries out for you in your grief and you have my thoughts and prayers. He died a hero defending freedom. May you have the peace and understanding that only comes from God. Prayerfully we will all meet in Heaven one day where we will rest in the arms of Jesus. If you need prayer or need someone to talk to, please call or write my pastor: Rev. John Pearrell 11677 Brown Bridge Rd., Covington, GA 30016. (770)787-1015.
Your friend in Jesus Christ, Polly Ballew Covington,Ga""

"To the Family and Friends of Michael Martinez: I just wanted to let you know that yesterday I placed a flag with Michaels name on it along Highway 30 west of Paxton, Nebraska. This was done in honor of our fallen heroes as part of "Project America Run". It was an awesome feeling as I stuck this flag in the ground knowing his sacrifice for me and all Americans. May God Bless You and be with you always."
Bonnie Wendland of Paxton, Nebraska USA

"I never want to forget the sacrifices of so many young men and women. I am so proud it makes me cry. I understand in theory only that war is a part of human nature but so is love and caring. I wish I could take the families pain away but I can't. I am committed to loving ALL people, myself and our environment. I am committed to working on my happiness everyday because so many have died for my freedom to live my life. Thank you is not enough but it is all I have. All my love and respect. ogersteiner@yahoo.com
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEjz-wAQLSA&feature=PlayList&p=477CB1585D5551F3
A hundred times a day, I remind myself that my inner and outer life depends on the labors of other men, living and dead, and I must exert myself in order to give in the same measure as I have received and am receiving. - Albert Einstein"
Scott E. Steiner of Worthington, OH USA

"Mike,

You came to our office and brought spirit and energy. You were part of the legal team and your peers and subordinates respected your judgment and integrity. Your loss was immense, both at the Carson OSJA as well as in the JAG Corps. We miss you brother. Wendi and I pray for your family and loved ones."
CPT Allen P. Zent of Ft Riley, KS

"Sir, during our deployment, I got to know the real Mike Martinez. You were a devoted family man, outstanding officer, and a true warrior. You always made time to help the Troopers of the Regiment with their personal issues back home. Your big smile was always a welcome sight when coming back from missions outside the wire. You are missed but will never be forgotten."
MSG Scully "Brave Rifles" of TJAGLCS, NCOA

"January 4, 2009
To the family of Maj. Michael R. Martinez:
Michael gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org"
Peggy Childers of Carson City, NV

"Michael,

You gave the ultimate sacrifice for us and you will never be forgotten. Your memory will always live on in the hearts of many and I will never forget the times that we spent together. I miss you cousin and thank you for what you did for us and our Country!"
Brian Martinez of Albuquerque, NM/USA

"Maj. Martinez,
Sir, I would like to say thank you to you and the other soldiers who were on that Blackhawk with you for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your family, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

"Brave Rifles!"(3rd ACR Motto)"

"We Will NEVER FORGET !"
Please KNOW so many people share your sadness,
and we are remembering your family in your loss and your deep grief.
Our nations HERO, Michael will be remembered by name.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Pat & Sandi Breckenridge / Montana God Bless you ALWAYS. "

"Thank you Michael Martinez, you will not be forgotten. Your bravery goes beyond words. I want to express my deepest gratitude for your sacrifice. To the family and friends, my prayers and deep condolences in your loss. May God strengthen you from knowing that fellow Americans and people around the world care about you and grieve with you in your loss. God bless you all. A very appreciative fellow American,"
Leo Titus of Grayslake, Illinios

"To the family and friends of Maj. Michael Martinez:
May God's grace be with you during your time of grief. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and we feel your loss and share in your sorrow. Bless Michael for the sacrifice he has made to make a better life for the rest of us."
The Ford Family of Wells, Nevada

"To the family and friends of Maj. Michael Martinez:
I am saddened by the loss of your loved one. He will always be remembered as a hero for fighting for freedom. I hope that this website will be a source of comfort and encouragement for you during this difficult time, and in the future as you recall the memories of Michael, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia

Honor them by remembering... Freedom - is their gift to us But his soul goes marching on