As Grand Marshal, J.R. Martinez will ride in the 123
rd Rose Parade presented by Honda in front of a worldwide television audience, and toss the coin before the 98
th Rose Bowl Game presented by VIZIO on Jan. 2, 2012.
“J.R. Martinez is an inspiration to us all and a natural fit for our theme
Just Imagine…,”
said Rick Jackson, president of the Tournament of Roses. “J.R. is not
only a courageous and engaging role model for us all but has dedicated
himself to helping not only servicemen and servicewomen, but all
Americans facing challenges. His outlook on life is admirable and we
couldn’t be happier to have the chance to celebrate the New Year with
him as we entertain the millions of fans around the world during the
Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game.” Amen to that, President Jackson. Amen to that!
In September 2002, Martinez underwent Basic and Advanced Training at
Fort Benning, Ga., where he gained skills as an 11-B Infantryman. After
reporting to
Fort Campbell, Ky. in January 2003, he was assigned to the
2nd Battalion, 502
nd Infantry Regiment of the 101
st Airborne Division.
J.R. Martinez was deployed to Iraq in March 2003, and on Apr. 5,
2003, less than a month into his deployment, he was serving as a driver
of a Humvee in Karbala when his left front tire hit a land-mine. Three
other soldiers with Martinez were ejected from the burning vehicle, but
Martinez was trapped inside. He suffered smoke inhalation and severe
burns to 40 percent of his body. Martinez spent 34 months in recovery
at BAMC and underwent 33 different surgeries including skin grafts and
cosmetic surgery.
During his time in recovery, a nurse asked Martinez to speak to a
burn patient who had become withdrawn after seeing his body for the
first time post-injury. After Martinez’ 45-minute visit, the patient
began to open up. Seeing the impact a simple visit had on this patient,
Martinez decided to use his experience to help others, visiting with
several of the patients in the hospital, sharing his story and listening
to theirs. Since then, Martinez has become a highly sought-after
motivational speaker, traveling the country to spread his message of
resilience and optimism.
“When I was first asked to be Grand Marshal of the Tournament of
Roses festivities by President Jackson, I was speechless,” said
Martinez. “To be able to participate in this iconic American tradition
on New Year’s Day is something I could only imagine. I believe
everything happens for a reason and I’m grateful the events of my life
have provided me with the opportunity to share my message of hope and
possibility on New Year’s Day.”
In October 2008, Martinez stepped into another role, when he was cast
as combat veteran
Brot Monroe on ABC’s Emmy Award-winning daytime drama
“All My Children.” Today, Martinez also balances his schedule with his
speaking engagements, along with his extensive charity work with
Operation Finally Home, Phoenix Society, USO, Iraq Star and IAVA to name
a few.
I would love to see his dance partner Karina Smirnoff and other members of the DWTS cast at the Parade to cheer him on....Trust me, on New Years Day, I plan to be one of the millions on Colorado Boulevard to be celebrating the wonderment of a new year front and center.
Thanks JR....
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