Honoring Our Veterans: Simon Martinez

Simon Martinez is a United States Veteran who served 22 years in four different branches of the military during his career. 

Martinez joined the military at 18 years old, after wanting to be in the military since being a child. 

He first joined the Air Force where he was sent to basic training. 

However, after graduating from basic training, he realized he needed the education to be able to stay in. 

Martinez returned home to Casa Grande, Ariz., and decided to join the National Guard. 

In 1954, Martinez then joined the Marine Corps where he spent 11 years of his military career and then transferred over to the Navy where he spent the remaining 10 years in the military.

He has many memories from his time in the military and chooses to keep those memories to himself.

While serving, he was deployed to Vietnam four different times, where he lost a few friends. But he's thankful that he was able to survive those hard years and return backhome. 

Martinez is part of the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Disabled American Veterans. 

He also helps out at different community events where he gives back to the community.

Martinez advicesteenagers to join the military and take advantage of the benefits, to further proceed with their education.