Michael died, really, on an extension at the behest of the government. Michael didn't volunteer to go a second time to Iraq. He was locked in.
— Manuel Martinez, father
Before enlisting, Martinez worked graveyard hours delivering business supplies for Costco and taking community college classes he often skipped. He told his mother he was "treading water...going nowhere fast."

5 memories of Michael

Michael had the most comforting smile & he was the friendliest person I'd ever met.

— anonymous
May 28, 2008 at 4:20 a.m.

Sgt. Martinez, I miss you. I know you're just looking down at me. I am trying to get better. You know me, I am still trying to recover. I almost give up. There's still so much thing going on with me. Anyway, you're always my team leader. You lead me the way to be the great soldier I could ever be. You were there for me, for the rest of our platoon and company. You did your very best. Thank you for everything that you've done. You are always remembered. We love you...

— Arvin Reyes
June 29, 2008 at 5:41 a.m.

you were like a father and a big brother to me. you led me thru hard times in iraq. we miss you

— PFC Daniel Villalvazo
March 5, 2009 at 5:32 a.m.

i wish i can just hear your voice.....i miss you with everything i have...

— someone close to home
July 13, 2009 at 4:05 p.m.

i thank you for your services.. you are missed by many.. wish i could have met you..

— someone whos has heard the best about you..
September 28, 2009 at 5:25 p.m.

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