Martin grew up in Tucson, Arizona, where he was known for his strong faith, deep love for family and friends, and devotion to his community. A natural leader with an adventurous spirit, he joined the Navy JROTC program at Tucson High Magnet School. His faith and sense of duty shaped his desire to serve, and his time in JROTC laid the foundation for a life of service and sacrifice.

After graduating, he enlisted in the U.S. Army as an infantryman in September 2004. He completed One-Station Unit Training, the Airborne Course, and the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program, earning his place in the elite 75th Ranger Regiment. Assigned to Company C, 1st Battalion, at Hunter Army Airfield in Georgia, he rose through the ranks—serving as ammunition handler, automatic rifleman, team leader, and ultimately squad leader. He deployed six times: four times to Afghanistan and twice to Iraq. On August 19, 2010, while leading a combat operation in Logar Province, Afghanistan, he was mortally wounded by enemy fire. In his final moments, he acted with courage and decisiveness to protect his men, saving their lives. For his bravery, he was posthumously awarded the Silver Star.

His legacy lives on through his family, friends, and comrades.