The New York Jets honored Special Agent Miguel A. Martinez Jr. as their Vet Tix Veteran of the Game during a nationally televised event at MetLife Stadium, when the Jets faced the Denver Broncos.
Martinez, currently assigned to the Fort Hamilton Northeast Field Office, Army Criminal Investigation Division, received a surprise call from New York Jets legend Tony Richardson, informing Martinez of his selection, which took place in the office of Col. Melissa Cantwell, garrison commander of U.S. Army Garrison Fort Hamilton.
"Being a New York native and being recognized on a nationally televised New York stage was an honor and an incredible experience," Martinez said. "I am thankful to the USAG-Hamilton Command Team and the NY Jets for celebrating my 20-year service to the U.S. Army and the nation."
Martinez's military career began as a culinary arts specialist before he was reclassified to CID. His service included deployments in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom with the 4th Infantry Division in 2005, Operation Enduring Freedom with the 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team in 2007, and with the 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne) in 2010.
His numerous awards included the Combat Action Badge for engaging enemy combatants in small arms fire without sustaining physical injuries, as well as the Iraq Campaign Medal with two campaign stars, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two campaign stars, and the Army Commendation Medal (6th Award).
"These awards represent not just my service, but the collective efforts of all the brave men and women I've served alongside," Martinez added. "Each medal tells a story of sacrifice and dedication to our country."
Steven Castleton, military and first responder liaison to the New York Jets and retired civilian aide to the secretary of the Army, praised the team's commitment to honoring the armed forces.
"In my 14-plus years with the Jets, I have continually seen them do more and more each year to honor our armed forces," Castleton said. "Both Woody and Chris Johnson, whose mom Miss Betty was a WAVE in WWII, set the tone and it carries throughout the entire organization."
The recognition of Martinez was part of the New York Jets' broader Salute to Service initiatives, which include hosting multi-service flag football games and sponsoring similar events on military bases worldwide.
"Being part of this program shows the deep respect the Jets organization has for veterans," Martinez concluded. "It's more than just recognition; it's about fostering understanding and support for those who serve."
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