My Papa

Today, my grandfather was accepted and officially registered for the World War II Memorial. In the 1940's he joined the US Armed Forces of the Far East and served proudly for the US as a Philippine National. My grandfather recounted his war days to me as a child and it wasn't until I did my own research in high school and college that I knew what it all means to my family and my personal history. A humble farmer from a small town, on a small island in the Philippines, he was proud to serve his old country and his future country. He did so with valor, receiving the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star Medal along the way. There are a few war stories that I'll avoid posting here, not only because they are long, but because I can't do them justice.

My Papa was a good man, the best man - besides my own father, and I can't explain how proud I am to be a Martinez today.