Major Michael D

Major Michael D. Martino

Courageous Warrior – Selfless Leader – Unwavering Sacrifice

Figure 1 – Major Michael D. Martino

PART 1 – Growing Up – 1973 - 1991

Michael David Martino was born on January 31st, 1973, on the island of Kwajalein, part of the Republic of the Marshall Islands (a U.S. Trust Territory). His parents Robert and Sybil were employed by U.S. Government contractors and both worked on the Anti-Ballistic Missile Defense System at the Kwajalein Missile Range.

Mike was the youngest of three children with a brother Robert and sister Lauri. As a young child Michael already knew he wanted to be a pilot. Michael loved going to the Kwajalein Air Terminal to see the military planes. Even growing up Michael was very patriotic, and it was not a surprise when he decided he wanted to join the military and become a pilot. Even at the age of three, Michael enjoyed looking at books with airplanes.

Figure 2 - Michael Reading Airplane Book

Mike and his family lived on Kwajalein until he was 8, when in December 1980 they moved to Irvine, California. During his youth, Michael, along with his brother Robert and sister Lauri, was active in swim team…all of them earning medals at various swim meets. In addition to swimming, Michael participated and excelled in football and wrestling. He eventually earned the nickname “Flea” because, although he was smaller than many of his classmates, he was ferocious. Although never an instigator, he was never one to back down when confronted by others no matter how much larger the opponent might be.

As a teenager in Irvine, Michael had not lost his interest in airplanes. At first light he would ride his bike to the El Toro Marine Corps Air Station to attend the annual military air shows. He would be one of the first to arrive and one of the last to leave. He spent hours talking to the pilots and exploring the planes. Years later, one of his military friend’s fathers (the Marine senior sergeant in charge of the maintenance shop) said Michael knew more about the planes than his staff did.

Michael graduated from Woodbridge High School in 1991, and immediately started working on his dream of a career in aviation. While in school, he kept out of trouble, earned good grades and stayed active in sports. He knew the military were looking for pilots who were well rounded individuals, and that you needed to be smart, a good leader and physically fit. He realized it took a great deal of ambition and hard work, and that not everyone who started the program would become pilots, but he was focused and determined to succeed.

PART 2 - UCSD and USMC Training – Fall 1991–February 2004

After high school, Michael attended the University of California in San Diego (UCSD). His goal was to get a degree as quickly as possible and to join the Marines and apply for flight school. In order to be guaranteed a slot as a candidate for flight school, he knew he needed to be in the top 10 percent academically so he concentrated on getting good grades. Unlike many of his fellow students, he focused on his school work rather than partying. 2

In his spare time, Mike would run miles in the back undeveloped hill areas near San Diego wearing his combat boots. He did this in order to develop strength and stamina. He knew the Marines were tough and required running long distances with full combat gear so he wanted to be ready. He also went to a commercial flight school to earn his private pilots license to increase his chances later when attending flight school.

In his junior year at UCSD, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps Officers Candidate Program. He spent his junior and senior year summer months in basic training at the Officer’s Candidate School (OCS) in Quantico, Virginia. This was boot camp for officer candidates wherein for 12 weeks the Marines were drilled on physical fitness, military academics, and leadership skills.

After graduating UCSD in September 1996 with a BA in Economics, Mike was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps. Soon thereafter he was sent to Quantico, Virginia, for 6 months training at The Basic School (TBS) where he was to be trained to be a leader of Marines. Since he planned to be a Marine pilot, he again realized that it was highly competitive to be selected for flight school. The training consisted of ground tactics, weapons training, self defense, land navigation and some academic classes.

Figure 3 - UCSD Graduation 1996 Figure 4 - 2nd Lt Michael Martino (1996)

By 1999, Mike was on his way to Naval Flight School in Pensacola, Florida. The first phase of the training was the Aviation Preflight Indoctrination (API) which was seven weeks of intense schooling on physics, aerodynamics, engine systems, and water survival. Failure to pass any three exams during this training meant disenrollment from the flight program. Many Marines did not make it.

The next stage of flight school was referred to as Primary where for the next 6 months the Marines actually learned to fly planes. Michael learned how to land the aircraft, how to land in 3 case of an engine failure, how to deal with in flight emergencies, how to fly formation with another aircraft, how to fly off your instruments if you can't see out of the cockpit, and how to fly aerobatics. The training was intense and all the student pilots were scheduled everyday for a flight which took about 3 hours.

After each flight, Mike would go home and study about 6 to 7 hours for his flight the following day. This training was so stringent that a few non-perfect landings would wash you out of the program. Again Michael’s determination kicked in. He even built a rudder and stick simulator in his apartment to practice precise flight maneuver controls.

After the marine’s last flight in Primary, they were able to request what type of aircraft they wanted to fly…helicopters, jets, or multi-engine transport planes. The military had slots for each type of aircraft for everyone who finished Primary that week, but the number of slots always varied. There maybe three jet slots, three helicopter slots, and one multi-engine slot, or there may be zero jet slots, and seven helicopter slots. You just never knew.

Michael of course excelled in the flight syllabus. With his grades he could have flown anything he wanted, but he was determined to fly helicopters. His precise goal was to fly Cobra Attack Helicopters which at the time were the most prized slots of all. He often said he did not want to fly anything that did not have guns or drop bombs. He was thrilled when he got one of the helicopter slots. He then reported to Whiting Field to start his training to fly helicopters.

After Primary comes the Intermediates stage which takes about three months. The final stage of Mike’s Flight School training was the Advanced which lasted for six months. He learned to apply what he had learned in Primary to flying helicopters. Among many other things, he learned to land on the backs of Navy Ships, to fly low level high airspeed missions, to make confined area landings, and external load carrying.

On June 1, 2000, 1st Lt Martino was presented a letter of commendation by the Dept. of the Navy in recognition of his outstanding achievement in advanced academic training while assigned to Training Air Wing FIVE, Naval Air Station at Whiting Field. His superior performance placed him among the top ten percent of all student naval aviators which guaranteed him a Cobra slot. Two weeks prior to his graduation Michael got to pick the specific aircraft he wanted to fly. For him it was the AH-1W Super Cobra Helicopter!!!

In August 21, 2000, Michael was promoted to Captain.

On February 22, 2001, with his training completed, Michael attended his winging ceremony in Pensacola, Florida, in which he received his Naval Aviation Wings. This was ultimately the goal for which all the student aviators had been working. Once they received their wings, they were considered a professional Naval Aviator.

The military spends about one million dollars to train each pilot, so each of them entered the military on a contract that after they got winged as a military pilot they were obligated to serve that branch of service for at least eight years. Michael’s plans were to be a career Marine so that was not a problem for him.

Figure 5 – Winging Ceremony Figure 6 – Dad Wings Michael

Figure 7 - Mike with Sister Lauri Figure 8 - Mike with Brother Bobby

5 In July 2001, Michael finally headed home to Southern California where he was stationed at Camp Pendleton. He was assigned to the Roster Air Group (RAG) HMT-303 which trained him on AH-1W Super Cobras. This school was another six months and trained him to use his aircraft to support military operations and tactics.

Each aircraft has a specific roll in the military. The Marine Corps uses its aircraft in a supporting role for its ground forces. Marine Corps air provides the Marines on the ground with bombs on target and the transport of troops into hostile environments. Every Marine Aviator is a ground officer by nature and thinks like one. This is the reason for the harsh training the Marine pilots went through at The Basic School in Quantico, Virginia. Cobra pilots are considered to be the point of the spear in Marine operations, being the first units to secure a battlefield in order for the bigger personnel transport helicopters to land troops and supplies.

In 2002, Michael was sent to Okinawa, Japan, for 13 months to his first professional squadron (HMLA-367) known as the Scarface Squadron. While in Okinawa he was attached to HMM-282 Flying Tigers, which was part of Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) 32 Reinforced. He deployed on the naval ship the USS Essex LHD-2 for six months during that period. At this time, Operation Iraqi Freedom was launched and many of the stateside units were deployed to Iraq. Michael stewed over not being involved. His unit was kept overseas to protect the deployed forces in South Korea from attack, which was a concern given our large deployment in Iraq.

Figure 9 - HMT-303 Training Flight aboard USS Essex

Here Mike had to put to use the skills learned in flight school of landing on a flight deck in all weather and during night operations. This is considered one of the most stressing flight operations performed by any military pilot. Michael would later describe the night landings on the aircraft carrier as probably the most difficult to date. 6

Figure 10 - On Approach to USS Essex

The following picture of a section formation flight was taken by Michael while stationed in Okinawa in August 2002 and was later used by the USMC as a billboard advertisement in North Carolina.

Figure 11 - Section Formation Flight at Okinawa

7 In December 2003, Michael returned from Okinawa, and was able to spend time with his family in Fairfax, VA. The following two pictures were taken in January 2004 with his two nieces, Devyn Gabrielle and Sydney Elaine Martino who adored their uncle.

Figure 12 - Uncle Mike with Sydney and Devyn - 2004

Figure 13 – Uncle Mike with Sydney – 2004

8 Upon Michael’s return to the States from Okinawa, he was still spoiling to get involved with the war in Iraq. His concern was that not being involved in a major conflict would hamper his being promoted to a higher rank. His squadron, unit HMLA-367, had recently rotated back to the States and was not going to get involved in Iraq anytime soon. Thus, any flight time would be limited stateside. His commanding officer suggested that Michael sign up for school as a Forward Air Controller (FAC) to help his promotion options. So Michael signed up to become a FAC, with the goal of deploying with the next rotation of Marine units going to Iraq.

PART 3 – 1ST Tour in Iraq - Feb 20 - Oct 5, 2004

Capt Martino was assigned as a Forward Air Controller (FAC) with the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment with the 1st Marine Division at Camp Pendleton, CA. From February 20, 2004 to October 5, 2004, his battalion was deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Their formidable task was to rid the city of Fallujah of insurgents. Fallujah is in the western Anbar Province considered the wild west of Iraq. It was one of the most dangerous places in Iraq with daily attacks on Marines forces. It was also the home of the notorious head of Al-Qaeda, Ahmed Al Zarqawi.

Michael was attached to Echo Company, which was deployed in the middle of urban Fallujah. Echo Company was commanded by Capt. Doug Zembiec…later known as the “Lion of Fallujah.” Mike was designated as call sign “Oprah” for his caring nature.

As a Forward Air Controller (FAC) he was responsible for calling in air strikes on enemy positions in support of his Marine unit. Mike would volunteer to go on patrols into the city with squads because being there on patrol was always a big moral boost to the younger Marines knowing that if they got into trouble he would call in the AC-130 gunship to neutralize the enemy. Many times when he went out on patrol there was no air support overhead, but he went out just to keep moral high among the young Marines. During many operations he would deploy forward with Fire Support Teams (FIST), which included the Marine snipers.

Figure 14- Mike at Traffic Control Point 1

The following are excerpts from email correspondence during Michael’s first tour in Iraq

From: Martino Capt Michael D Sent: Sunday, March 21, 2004 10:11 AM Subject: Mohaba Qi :

I can receive mail now, so please send something. Letters and packages are great for morale. I will leave a list at the end of this e-mail. My address is still the one on that sheet of paper I gave you.

It looks like I will be playing a big part in what goes on around here. Convoys go on all the time, but I will also be participating in the missions and raids. I went to a Fallujah city council meeting last week. I met a few key people there including the mayor of Fallujah. Some of the other Iraqi's are very shady characters. Some of them ask me what I do, and I always make something up. I've already got quite a bit of stories to tell you, and I've only been here a week. I'm looking forward to getting home and telling you some of them. This place is no joke. It's not the same as what the news portrays. A bunch of us already earned Combat Action Ribbons.

EPW stands for Enemy Prisoner of War. The correct terminology now is Detainee. Anyways, our Battalion (Bn) Lawyer took me to the detainment center a while back to see the Detainee's. You can see how much they hate Americans just by the way they look at you.

Mike

-----Original Message----- From: Wayne Barber (Michael’s Uncle) Sent: Sunday, March 21, 2004 7:28 PM To: Captain Martino Subject: May I shake your hand?

Hello Mike, This is your Uncle Wayne.

May I shake your hand to say thank you for your service to our country? Whenever I see an American in military uniform, I make it a point to go out of my way to express my gratitude. I know that it isn't very much, but just yesterday, I shook hands with and thanked a USAF captain who sprang to her feet, gave me a snappy salute and said, "I'm damn proud to do it sir."

I cannot imagine how difficult it must be in a foreign country, surrounded by millions of civilians, and not be able to tell the good guys from the bad guys. With this being a

10 presidential election year, your mission in Iraq will become political fodder until November. Our current administration in Washington is committed to stay the course until the job is done and done right.

American armed forces must stay in Iraq until a free democratic and stable government is in place, no matter how long it may take, even if we have to do it alone. Where is the rest of the free world I wonder? Consider this Mike.

No one in Iraq under the age of 38 has ever known freedom. It is up to America to show them just what they are missing. Then and thereafter they will have something to lose because, freedom works and freedom is contagious!

The top bad guys in Iraq understand this truth very well. That's why they are so afraid. And one day, at least one out of millions of free Iraqis will come up to you and say, "May I shake your hand to say thank you for your service to our country?"

With gratitude and respect on behalf of the free,

Uncle Wayne

-----Original Message----- From: Martino Capt Michael D Sent: Monday, March 22, 2004 2:20 AM To: Dad Subject: Khe Falla

Hey,

Fallujah is a Sunni area, the worst of the five religious and cultural back-grounds. Part of the city is made up of former Iraqi military officers. The former officers live a good life, nice estates and houses. Some of the other people live in poverty, like the slums of LA. These former military guys are the ones probably causing all the trouble. You can't go through the town of Fallujah without being shot at. If you stop for more than 30 minutes, you'll be fired at. We have been using methods in which to avoid situations. Just so you're not worried, we take good precautions when we go anywhere. The people away from the Sunni Triangle will wave at you, but the Sunni's will give you the finger and throw rocks at you. These are the little kids too. Going through the town last time, I saw a garage that was selling HUMMVEE tires. If you leave a broken vehicle there, it will be mobbed and stripped. The poor people are scavenging to get by, while the wealthy are financing a fight with the US.

Mike

-----Original Message----- From: Martino Capt Michael D Sent: Friday, April 02, 2004 4:26 AM

11 To: Mom

I don't want you to worry about me. I'll be home in October as planned. The enemy is a bunch of cowards. They will shoot at you and run away. I want so bad to get one in my gun sights. I was at the camp to the Southwest when I was ordered to report back to the main base to participate in that Battalion surge into the city. We got attacked when we were about to leave. After that, I was out with the companies in a defensive position for two days to protect our engineers while they built some fortifications. The Marines are taking a different approach to things here, more aggressive. Two nights ago, I was briefly attached to the Light Armored Recognizance Vehicles (LAR). Our northern element got ambushed. Big mistake for the enemy, because a C-130 gunship was on station and made mince meat out of them.

The AC-130 could see them with their sensors and tore them to pieces. I was very satisfied that night. I don't expect we will be building many schools and kissing Iraqi babies any time soon.

You may have seen on the news about the American security guys who were burned and paraded around the city. The security guys were the civilian security crew that protected the base at the small camp I was at to the southeast. I know some of them, but I don't know which ones were killed. I saw the video on TV. I wanted so badly to shoot those bastards parading around the streets. These people are hypocrites. Islam strictly forbids its followers from desecrating the bodies of the dead, even animals. I have no respect for these people who claim Islam is the only true religion and don't even follow the rules of the Koran. I guess it's the same in all religions because I've seen Christians who sin as well. The difference is Christians, for the most part, aren't killing people in the name of Christianity.

I feel pretty safe while on base camp, so I hope that eases your mind. We occasionally get mortared and the guard towers shot at, but the base is so big and the enemy couldn't hit the broad side of a barn with their mortars. The only time I'm in danger is when I have to convoy somewhere or go on a mission. That is usually only about three times a week to give you an idea of how often I go off base.

I don't care if you share my emails with anyone. Just don't forward the same email with my name on it. You can tell people what I said though. That last one I sent about CNN, we had an investigator come to our Battalion with a guy from the Los Angeles Times to get the real story. The LA Times supposedly fixed the bad information that was going around. Just remember not to believe anything you see on the news, especially when it comes to casualties because they are usually inaccurate.

Mike

12 From: Mom Sent: Tuesday, April 06, 2004 11:53 PM To: Lauri Martino, Bobby Martino (Michael’s siblings) Subject: Fighting in Fallujah

We've had no news from Mike in several days. He indicated in one of his recent emails that he would be unavailable for awhile so we are not concerned about that. Although he didn't come out and say it, we knew from his email that the Marines would shortly be moving in on the city of Fallujah. Dad and I have been so stressed out. I'm constantly checking the news to find out what's going on. I hate getting phone calls or having someone come to the door. The military compound in Ar Ramadi that got attacked yesterday where they killed about 20 Marines, is also a place that Michael is sometimes. We know he is currently in the city of Fallujah so we know he was not in Ar Ramadi at the time of the attack.

Please continue with your prayers for Mike and all our other service men and women.

Sybil

-----Original Message----- From: Martino Capt Michael D Sent: Wednesday, April 28, 2004 1:39 PM To: Dad Subject: I'm back at our camp for 24 hours to get some R&R and resupply myself. I haven't changed my clothes in about a month. I've been living out of a back-pack the entire time. Most of my pack is taken up by all the equipment I need to carry.

My Company has been on the news or news papers several times, so keep an eye out for me. Most of the airstrikes have been directed by me or the other Battalion FAC. We have several news personnel with us (FOX, CNN, LA TIMES) and they filmed my work and pasted it all over the news today.

When I walked into our HQ this afternoon and saw the news I was irate. They showed that air strike I was talking about and then started analyzing the war in Fallujah. My Company had a skirmish in the city and the news claimed that we were unable to hold our ground in the city. WE HAVEN'T EVEN TRIED TO MOVE INTO THE CITY TO MAINTAIN THE GROUND! If and when we do go into the city, they will know. Right now we are holding back because of the so- called cease fire. I'm going to have a little talk with the CNN reporter when I get back.

Love, Mike

13 From: Martino Capt Michael D Sent: Thursday, May 06, 2004 8:40 AM To: Martino, Robert (Mike’s brother) Subject: RE:

Hello everyone,

Good to hear that mom and dad had a good time in Florida. I wish I could have been there. I also wish I could go on that trip to NC. Make sure you e-mail me your phone number of the place where you will be staying so I can call if and when I get back to the rear area again. I just got here about an hour ago. The first time I e-mailed you, I was supposed to get a 24 hour R&R but they had me called back early. I was in the middle of writing my last e-mail when they told me, so I didn't think I was going to have a chance to put everyone’s address on the e-mail.

The other FAC and I have become popular in the squadrons that support us. The Cobra squadron is from Camp Pendleton, so I will probably have a good reputation among the Cobra squadrons when I get home. I was also put in for a medal by my Company Commander for the effectiveness of my work in warding off the bad guys and at such close range. I don't know if the medal will be approved, but it's good to know my work is appreciated. I've already gotten more gratitude out of the Battalion than I ever got out of Scarface. The AC-130 gunship squadron gave a couple of their squadron coins to me and the other FAC via our Air Officer. They loved working with us and said it was the most they had fired their guns in the squadron's history.

The newspapers have done some articles on me and the other FAC as well. The L.A. Times guy said he just did an article that mentioned my call sign "Oprah" (Scarface thought it would be funny to give all the Jr. pilots crappy call-sign's) in the paper, so keep an eye out for it. I don't know what the title of the article is, so you may have to look a bit. If you do find it, save the article for me when I get home.

I don't know if we won't have to go back in and finish the job some time soon, but for now we are working with the Iraqi Civil Defense Corps (ICDC) to fix the problems in the city. The reason it got so bad was because these people weren't policing themselves. It's their city and they need to help defend it from the terrorists coming in.

Some things I thought of that I could use: A small/portable case for my digital camera, another set of barber scissors (the other ones got misplaced), a book on Oliver North’s' biography or on the Iran-contra scandal, a weight gainer supplement from GNC called Nitro- Tech (think I only weigh 150 now), and a burned CD of all the Cobra pictures dad has on file (mostly of ones where I'm not standing next to the aircraft). A Marine said he would trade me an Iraqi army barrette for a CD of my squadron pictures. Well, thanks again for all the packages. I have more than enough candy and batteries now. Thanks. I should go now

14 because I need to take a shower and eat some good food. Tell everyone I love them and miss them.

Mike

From: Michael’s Mom To: Michael’s Family Sent: Friday, May 07, 2004 1:52 PM Subject: Status of Mike...

We got a phone call from Mike about 2 a.m. this morning. He is doing fine. He is back at his living quarters at the base so was able to take a shower and get some decent food. He's lost a lot of weight. Everyone is always asking about ideas for what to send him. He asked for weight gain supplement called Nitro-Tech which you can buy at GNC.

The company commander (Capt. Doug Zembiec) put Mike in for a medal (equivalent to a Bronze Star) for the effectiveness of his work in warding off the terrorists and at such close range. Mike, the other FAC and the Company Commander are the only three who did not get relief during the month long siege at Fallujah. The other Marines were able to rotate in and out and go back and take showers, get decent food and sleep in their own living quarters. Since there are only 2 FAC's (Forward Air Controllers) for three companies, the FACs needed to stay in the city throughout the month. When Mike was finally able to get a 24 hour R&R, he was called back into Fallujah almost immediately and was barely able to get an email off to us. Mike also has a guy from Fox News, CNN and another news agency that are with them most of the time. The following article appeared in the LA Times and was written by one of the news people with Michael. Michael's code name is "Oprah" and he is mentioned in the article. I bolded Michael's unit name.

NOTE: To view the article “It’s a Room with a view -- of war” written by Tony Perry, Times Staff Writer, mentioned above, go to http://articles.latimes.com/2004/may/05/entertainment/et-perry5

Mike was very upset about the abuse of the prisoners. Unfortunately it just takes a dozen or so idiots to undermine what the other military people have done for the Iraq's. Mike would not go into detail, but apparently he had occasion to help some woman that had been beaten and tortured by the terrorists. They were able to get her to medical help. He said he would tell us the details later.

Love, Sybil/Mom

-----Original Message----- From: Martino Capt Michael D Sent: Monday, May 17, 2004 6:03 AM To: Mom & Dad Subject: HELLO 15

Let's see if I can get this e-mail out. I had one written out yesterday, but the computer went down and I lost it. Just got back from occupying a position at a cement factory. The sand storms kicked up and I had sand everywhere on me and in my gear. I got the article Lauri sent me from the L.A. Times. I was with Echo Company the entire time. I counted up the amount of times I had aircraft drop ordnance for me. It was 63 times. As a FAC we are supposed to keep a log of all our controls, like logging flight hours. Most FAC's end up having a total of about 30 controls at the end of their tour. After CAX and Desert Talon, I have a total of 202. Should come in handy as a Fitness Report accomplishment and when I go back to a squadron.

I'm operating out of the rear area camp (Camp Baharia) for the time being. Not sure how long it will last like this. I think it's only temporary. I don't think we will see the amount of fighting like we did during April and May. Looks like Scarface missed out again. The Air Force has an archive video of all the bombs we dropped using their aircraft.

Mike

-----Original Message----- From: Martino Capt Michael D Sent: Monday, May 17, 2004 12:30 PM To: Mom & Dad Subject: RE: HELLO

Mom and Dad,

The situation is better here, but who knows how long it will last. I don't know how much is being reported back home, so I don't know if what I want to say is common knowledge and can be told to you. There were reports that a large number of Insurgents from Syria left Fallujah. I don't know how they escaped so easily. We man the Check Points with the Iraqi's, so I think they just found a way around them.

I guess they couldn't handle getting their ass whipped by us. They thought we were going to operate like the Army. The Army would speed in and out of the city and let the Insurgents shoot at them. When we get shot at we get out and engage them with everything we have. The Marines won't back down from a fight. I think they realized that when we surrounded their city and pounded it for a month. Of course the Iraqi's claim it as a victory for them. When we went back to the outside perimeter of the city at the train station, someone posted a flag there that said "Islamic Victory". These people are stupid. They have no idea how lucky they were that we didn't completely destroy their city because that's how it would have ended up. Fallujah would have looked like a city from WWII, but the Insurgent leaders decided to negotiate instead.

16 There are people in the Fallujah city council who are probably corrupt and deal with the Insurgent leaders as much as they deal with our senior officers. These Fallujah council members probably convinced the majority of the Insurgents to leave rather than have their entire city demolished.

Mike

-----Original Message-----

Figure 15 - May 27, 2004 - FiST Team, Company Commander in Ba'ath House

Figure 16 - Capt Martino

Figure 17 - Fallujah Roof Top - May 27, 2004

NOTE: Mike on the roof of one of the Ba'ath party member’s houses. There is a grave yard behind him with the minoret in the back-ground. The houses on the other side of the grave yard (300m away) he directed a bunch of airstrikes on. The minoret is no longer there. The AK-47's were confiscated from some of the houses taken over.

-----Original Message----- From: Martino Capt Michael D Sent: Monday, June 07, 2004 8:40 AM To: Mom Subject:

Mom,

How hard would it be for you to get something with a Marine logo on it? The interpreter that was with my company during the fighting in April got me a gift (a Kurdish head wrap).

I thought it would be appropriate to return the favor with something from the US to give him.

Mike

Figure 18 - Mike with his Kurdish Interpreter - May 17, 2004

-----Original Message----- From: Martino Capt Michael D Sent: Thursday, June 10, 2004 2:04 AM 19 To: Mom Subject: RE: HOUSE PURCHASE

Maybe a T-shirt and a coffee mug. Can you make it two of each? There are two interpreters and I don't want to get one something and the other nothing.

Both were with my Company the entire time we were in the city. I think they are both good men. Whatever you buy, please take it out of my account.

FYI, another interpreter is getting me an Iraqi flag and an Arabian knife. I'm paying for those of course.

Mike

-----Original Message----- From: Martino Capt Michael D Sent: Friday, June 11, 2004 9:36 AM To: Mom & Dad Subject: FW: (no subject) Mom and Dad,

There are many articles floating around about what we did here. This one is the most accurate. It is from that guy you mentioned on Bill O'Reilly. I don't recall if he ever visited us, but I was too busy to notice all of them.

Mike

NOTE: To view above mentioned article “Overlooking Triumph” by Jack Kelly go to this webpage: http://archive.frontpagemag.com/readArticle.aspx?ARTID=12799

-----Original Message----- From: Martino Capt Michael D Sent: Friday, June 11, 2004 12:19 PM To: Mom & Dad Subject: RE: Erroneous Reporting of Events In Fallujah by News Media

Mom,

The Marines knew what happened here better than anyone else. Who is saying we lost!? That is Bulls--t!!! If we didn't have our hands tied by the politics of the situation, we could have completely destroyed that city with air and then moved in.

Unfortunately, to make less of a problem for the rebuilding of Iraq, we held back. Our goal ever since we got here is to rebuild Iraq, not destroy it. The first week when we moved into

20 the city, we had the insurgents on their heels. Only after the city was on the verge of being over-taken did the leaders of Fallujah (who have connections with the insurgents) decide to negotiate to save their city from complete destruction.

Because the Marines had to stop for the negotiations, this allowed the insurgents to re-supply and learn our tactics. Even during the cease fire, they would fire at us and we responded justly. Any actions we took during the supposed cease fire was to merely lure the stupid insurgents to come out and fight.

They spent most of the time hiding in buildings, peaking around corners to fire their weapons and run away. You can tell anyone about what I said because I was there, and I saw how many we killed. The media only saw the US casualties which were far less severe than the enemies, but they don't report that because the people of the US are more intrigued by US casualties.

While I was out there fighting, the reporters were down stairs when the real action was going on.

Mike

From: Mom Sent: Saturday, June 12, 2004 7:29 PM To: Mike Martino (Work) Subject: Letter from Duane Siegmann MgySgt

Hi again,

Wanted to let you know we got a very nice letter from Duane Siegmann regarding you. Seems you saved quite a few lives during your ordeal at Fallujah. He also tells us you're PTing every day to stay in shape. Hope you've been able to gain some of that weight back. Duane also sent a picture of you. You look thin.

Love, Mom

From: Martino Capt Michael D Sent: Sunday, June 13, 2004 1:38 PM To: Mom & Dad Subject: NEWS ARTICLE

Mom and Dad,

Attached is a news article on 26 APR 04 when myself and 39 other Marines and special forces guys went into the city. Our objective was to entice the enemy out of their hiding. I spent 4 hours calling in air this day. Also shot three magazines of M-16 rounds. Although the amount of enemy KIA will never be confirmed, I know of one sniper who shot 8-10. If I had to guess, I'd say we killed at least 20-30 of them.

Mike

NOTE: To view the article “Marines Recount Fallujah Firefight” by Darrin Mortenson, dated April 27, 2004, mentioned above go to: http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2004/Apr/27/marines-recount-fallujah-firefight/

-----Original Message----- From: Martino Capt Michael D Sent: Thursday, June 24, 2004 6:18 PM To: Dad Subject: RE: RE: Are you OK??

Dad,

Have you been watching the news? Pretty hairy and busy day for me. We had a reporter out with us who took some quotes from me. Can you look up and save any current articles on the fighting in Fallujah by Mark or Mike Rogers from the Union Tribune.

I'm back tonight because I was replaced by the other FAC. Not sure if it will end up like another April. Mostly wanted to let you know I'm OK in case you start watching the news.

Mike

Figure 19 - Cobra Air Support – 2004

From: Martino Capt Michael D 22 To: Sister Lauri Subject: RE: How are you? Date: Sat, 3 Jul 2004 17:11:35 +0400

Hi Lauri,

Nothing new lately. Just the same things going on.

I go out in the field more now. Down to that Vehicle Check Point (VCP) where the last firefight happened. The same place that the article was written on. The command seems to think that it is safer if a Forward Air Controller is there all the time. It's almost become a bad thing that we've done our jobs so well here.

Imagine spending 24 hours hiding in a bunker with full gear on and the temperature is 110 degrees. Flies swarm you all day and the hot wind blows sand into every orifice of your body. Then of course you have the daily mortar, RPG, and sniper fire to contend with.

Mike

Figure 20 - July 4, 2004 - Fallujah Patrol

Figure 21 - Mike and Fellow Marine at Udari – July 7, 2004

-----Original Message----- From: Mom Sent: Wednesday, July 07, 2004 9:05 AM To: Martino Capt Michael D Subject: RE: We're back... Hi Mike,

I was soooooooo happy to hear from you. I was listening to the news last night and they mentioned 4 Marines have been killed in a car bombing in Fallujah. I have been on pins and needles ever since. Every time we hear of a Marine getting killed, Dad and I listen to all of the circumstances in order to rule out that it could have been you. Listening to last night's news, I was unable to rule out it might have been you. I will be so glad when you are out of there.

My heart goes out to the families of those Marines and other service men that have been killed or injured. Based on the news we have been hearing since power was turned over to Iraq, it sounds like the Iraqis are fighting back more. I'm glad the power was turned over. They had on the news that another group of Iraqis are telling that Zarkowi (sp?) guy to get out of Iraq or they will kill him. They say he is killing innocent Iraqis and hurting the Muslim religion.

That picture of you is heart-wrenching. I could see that you were suffering from the heat. Have you had any of your "headaches"? I just can't imagine working under such conditions. Is that the first time you had to have an IV? Be careful. You can die from heat exhaustion.

Love, Mom

-----Original Message----- From: Martino Capt Michael D Sent: Thursday, July 08, 2004 3:11 PM To: Mom & Dad Subject: RE: We're back... Hi Mom,

The Marines that died were from the Light Armored Reconnaissance unit here on base with us. I only heard 3 Marines died, unless one of the wounded didn't make it. I have to spend 3 days out of the week at that Vehicle Check Point where the firefight took place last week. I spend 24 hours sitting in a bunker on the dirt. The temperature is unbearable. The water we have to drink heats up to about 100 degrees. I hate being there because it's a joint check point with the Iraqi Civil Defense Corps and I don't trust them to watch our back. Last week during that firefight or whenever there are mortars and small-arms fired at us they disappear.

I don't know if you remember reading that article, but one of the comments by the ICDC was that they ran away because the insurgents weren't shooting at them, they were shooting at the Marines. These people need to start taking control of their own country. It's true that they have been being a little more proactive lately, but it's still not enough. The Marines here have shown great restraint in shooting back. When someone starts shooting at us, we only respond with equal fire and when we can positively ID the target. This has been our goal in order to make the Iraqi's turn against the insurgents.

Oddly, I haven't had many headaches. I'm wondering if they are caused by dehydration now. Yes, it was the first time I had an IV. I knew I was a heat casualty by mid-afternoon, but I didn't want to take myself out. It was only until late that evening that the Company Commander talked me into going back to get re-hydrated. The other FAC replaced me.

Mike

----- Original Message ----- From: Martino Capt Michael D Date: Monday, July 12, 2004 6:48 pm Subject: RE: We're back...

Mom and Dad,

I gave all the gifts to one of the interpreters and asking him to give it to the other one. He was very thankful and gracious. I'm sure he liked them.

25 He seemed like a genuine person, but you never know. The biggest problem is that most of his soldiers lack military discipline. He was telling me that he would tell them to do their work and then they would go back to doing nothing when he leaves.

He told me that he was a Lieutenant in the Iraqi Army when they invaded Kuwait. He spoke out saying "Why are we attacking our brothers”. One of the other officers told him that Saddam was going to have him killed, so he went into hiding for a year. I asked him if he was happy that Saddam was gone and, of course, he said yes. He mentioned that Iraq was not a secure place and that he was glad to have the Americans here to help. It's good to know that there are some Iraqi's who appreciate what we are doing for them, unfortunately I don't think there are enough of them.

He gave me his barrette that he had when he was a Lieutenant in the Iraqi Army. The next day I gave him a Camel Pack I got for free from a buddy. He said he was also going to get me a soviet bayonet.

Mike

Figure 22 – Fallujah On Patrol - July 14, 2004

From: Mom Sent: Friday, July 23, 2004 10:46 AM Subject: Michael made the front cover of Marine Corps Times

Hi Everyone,

26 :

The picture shown below of Michael was taken by one of the reporters on the day of a fierce fire-fight in Fallujah. He told us he had just spent 4 hours calling in air support in 120 degree temperature while in full gear. He was so dehydrated and tired he couldn't move. He later had to be treated by a medic and put on an IV.

To quote Mike, "I knew I was a heat casualty by mid-afternoon, but I didn't want to take myself out. It wasn’t until late that evening that the Company Commander talked me into going back to get re-hydrated. The other FAC replaced me."

The next time we complain about the weather, think of what our troops go through. To quote Michael, "I spend 24 hours sitting in a bunker on the dirt. The temperature is unbearable. The water we have to drink heats up to about 100 degrees. I hate being there because it's a joint check point with the Iraqi Civil Defense Corps (ICDC), and I don't trust them to watch our back. Last week during that firefight, or whenever there are mortars and small-arms fired at us, they disappear. I don't know if you remember reading that article, but one of the comments by the ICDC was that 'they ran away because the insurgents weren't shooting at them. They were shooting at the Marines.'"

Needless to say, we can't wait to have him back in the U.S.

Love, Sybil

l Figure 23 - Mike Calling in Air Support

Figure 24 - Fallujah T-62 Tank - July 14, 2004

From: Martino Capt Michael D Sent: Monday, August 02, 2004 2:39 PM To: Dad Subject: RE: Saturday 31 July

Hi Dad,

Yes, I have been busy lately. The news articles are right about one thing only, that we are still fighting in Fallujah. Got some good air strikes in the other night with great results. Taught those bastards not to shoot at convoys coming through my AOR.

That tank was left here on the Camp after OIF I. There were some APC's that I got pictures of also. The tank still had some main gun rounds in it. When we were driving up here from Kuwait I saw a large number of other stuff left over. Just outside the camp here is a huge grave yard of former Iraqi Army equipment. It's a lot about 10,000 square meters filled with tanks, AAA, APC's, SAM's, etc. Pretty impressive sight to see. Looks like a bone yard.

Mike

----- Original Message ----- From: Martino Capt Michael D

28 Date: Wednesday, August 4, 2004 2:49 pm Subject: RE: Saturday 31 July

Hi Mom and Dad,

Just wanted to let you know that the History Channel will be here in the next few days to interview some of the Marines for a special they will be doing. Myself and the other FAC are one of the Marines that will be interviewed. It doesn't necessarily mean I will be on the show, but it's a possibility. If the special comes on before I get home, can you tape it for me.

Thanks, Mike

-----Original Message----- From: Martino Capt Michael D Sent: Friday, August 06, 2004 2:34 PM To: Mom & Dad Subject: INTERVIEW

Hi Mom and Dad,

I was interviewed today by the History Channel for an episode they will be doing on the fighting in Fallujah. The episode will come out between Sept and Oct. Can you make sure to record it for me.

Mike

-----Original Message----- From: Dad Sent: Tuesday, August 24, 2004 12:30 PM To: Martino Capt Michael D Subject: RE: Airline Reservations

I read the article about your CO he sounds like a real “no bullshit that gets it done person.” From the story he is an aggressive commander that will push the envelope. I guess you have been very busy supporting their operations. The story mentioned that he has put a number of his company in for commendation. Is it the same commendation that you mentioned earlier? I will be rally glad when you get home. I look forward to sharing time with you.

Dad

-----Original Message----- From: Martino Capt Michael D Sent: Tuesday, August 24, 2004 11:23 PM To: Dad Subject: Capt Doug Zembiec

29 Dad,

Capt Zembiec is a good guy. He dishes out a lot of praise for his Marines. He's the CO of Echo company where I'm just an attachment to bring more fire-power. I now work with all the companies, but I was attached to him for the majority of the fighting in April. He mentioned putting me in for an award, but I think it was my boss, Maj Clearfield, who actually wrote up the award. He mentioned it when he gave me my annual fitness report. At this point I just want to get home. I'll be glad when I get back also. I really look forward to seeing everyone.

Mike

Figure 25 - Mike with Capt Doug Zembiec - Iraq 2004

On October 5th 2004 Captain Martino’s unit arrived in California from Iraq after having spent 227 days in Fallujah…much of it under combat conditions.

Michael earned a Bronze Star for Valor for his actions during his tour as Forward Air Controller in Fallujah, Iraq. Capt. Michael Martino, aka “Oprah” is mentioned in a book entitled, "No True Glory" written by Bing West and based on a frontline account of this battle in Fallujah.

In addition, the book “Iraq in Transition” which details the legacy of the dictatorship and the prospect for democracy in Iraq, authored by Peter J. Munson, a close friend and fellow Marine,

30 was dedicated to Michael in the author’s hopes that some day all those who served and died there be honored by a stable and peaceful Iraq.

Figure 26 – Welcome Home

His sister Lauri postponed her wedding until after Michael returned from Iraq so that he could attend. Initially he was reluctant to wear his dress blues because he did not want to distract attention from the bride, but his sister was able to convince him to wear his dress blues.

31 Photos from Lauri and Chuck Nelson’s - Wedding Dec. 11, 2004

Figure 27 - Martino Cousins Robert, Sandra, Scotty, Lauri, Loretta and Michael

Figure 28 - Michael with Parents

PART 4 – 2004 - 2nd Tour in Iraq , November 2, 2005

In December 2004 after returning from Iraq, Michael (new call sign “Martini”) got his wish and joined the World Famous Gunfighters HMLA-369 squadron (a light attack helicopter squadron) out of Camp Pendleton, California. While he came up to speed on flying again, he was assigned as the Squadron's Administration Officer.

He was doing so well - both on the ground and in the air, that his commanding officer, Lt. Col. Thomas Weidley, "rewarded" him with a job change - down into the Maintenance Department, in charge of 63 Marines in the Airframes division (the second largest shop in the Squadron).

He loved being around the Marines, and this was his opportunity to put his leadership skills to the test. His Marines loved him almost as much as he loved them. He flew AH-1 W Super Cobra helicopters with this Squadron for almost a year and considered the Gunfighters his family.

Figure 29 – HMLA 369 PATCH

In August 2005, HMLA-369 was deployed to Iraq’s Anbar Province, one of the most dangerous places in Iraq. Following are some excerpts from emails from Michael during his second tour…Sep 25 – Nov 2, 2005.

Figure 30 – Capt. Martino in Cobra Helicopter

----Original Message----- From: Michael Sent: Sunday, September 25, 2005 9:18 PM To: Mom & Dad Subject: MADE IT

Hi Mom and Dad,

I'm here at Al Taqaddum. Got here yesterday morning. The camp is much better than my last deployment. The showers have hot and cold water. The chow hall is much nicer. Although the food last night wasn't that good. There's a gym, a barber, a phone and internet center also.

Love, Mike

From: Michael Sent: Wednesday, September 28, 2005 1:13 AM To: Mom & Dad Subject: HELLO

Hi Mom and Dad,

The living conditions are worse than my last deployment. I just saw the tents we will be living in. The tents have holes in them and leak when it rains. There is less personal space also.

Last time I lived in a building that had wooden shelves and bunk beds built in. On the other hand the chow hall and gym are better. Unlike last time I have to wait in line to use the internet. Before I had my own work computer that I could use.

Myself and some of the other Marines I will be getting a wireless internet in our tent, so it should be easier for me to check my e-mail soon.

Love, Mike

From: Michael Sent: Wednesday, September 28, 2005 1:16 AM To: Mom & Dad Subject: PICTURE OF MY SHOP

Figure 31 – Capt Martino’s HMLA-369 Airframes Shop - Sept 2005

35 ----- Original Message ----- From: Michael Date: Monday, October 3, 2005 11:17 pm Subject: RE: Just a line

Hi Mom,

I told dad that yesterday I flew a bunch. Can't tell you where I flew, but it's a good size radius from where I'm at. Should be a lot of use for my aircraft.

All week an occasional 775 pilot would come up to me and ask me if I was Oprah. Said I did a good job, which is good to know since I hear them criticizing many of the FAC's out here right now. I never told them to start calling me Martini, so Oprah has still kind-of stuck in the squadron for now. Like I said, as long as I continue to go by Oprah the other pilots will start calling me that.

Love, Mike

From: Martino Capt Michael D Sent: Wednesday, October 12, 2005 12:10 AM To: Mom & Dad Subject:

Hi Dad and Mom,

Doing fine. Will be going to Al Qaim today for an undisclosed amount of time. It's up North.

Quick note, my name is in a book on the story of Fallujah. Not sure how much they have me in it, but it might be worth reading. Author is Bing West...he was out there with us during Fallujah. The name of the book is "No True Glory-The Story of Fallujah" by Bing West. If you find it, can you send me a copy.

Mike

NOTE: Michael’s high school friend (Scott Tarlo) complained he had to pay $130,000 in taxes on the estate of his late father. Michael told him he would put the money to good use. It turns out that is the cost of 3 Hellfire missiles is $130,000. So Mike on one of his missions wrote a thank note from the Marines to Scott on his Hellfire missiles that he used that mission.

Figure 32-33 - Scott Tarlo's Hellfire Missiles

From: Michael To: Dad Sent: Sunday, October 16, 2005 1:10 AM Subject:

Living conditions are fine. Our base is an old train station. I live in one of the buildings. It would be like living in your garage with 5 of your friends.

The flying is better than TQ. Not much to do here, but wait, work out, eat, and sleep. I wish I could tell you more about what it's like here but I have to worry about OPSEC. Same routine as last time.

I won't find out about picking up Major until December. I will let you know.

Mike

NOTE: Unfortunately Michael would never learn that he was to be promoted to Major.

From: Martino Capt Michael D (ACE HMLA 369 Sent: Friday, October 21, 2005 10:57 PM To: Mom & Dad Subject: PICTURE

This is a picture of me at Al Qaim train station.

Figure 34 - Al Qaim "Train Robbery" - Oct 2005

NOTE: The following picture was the last picture Michael sent to his family prior to his being shot down on November 2, 2005. He is standing beside his Cobra Attack Helicopter.

Figure 35 - Capt Michael Martino - Oct 2005 – Al Qaim

-----Original Message----- From: Martino Capt Michael D Sent: Sunday, October 23, 2005 8:38 PM To: Dad Subject: RE: STOCK Dad,

39 I thought I sent you an e-mail before asking what you meant by TC-1. Not to get into too much detail, but the situation at Al Qaim is a lot like Fallujah. Specifically TCP-1 (Tactical Check Point 1). If I avoid other questions like that it's because I can't talk about it over e- mail.

Woody said he knew I would be there because I usually volunteer for the hot spots where the action is going to be. This time it's not a matter of volunteering because all the pilots want to go to where the action is. On my FAC tour Woody didn't care if I went in his place on most of the missions.

All the pilots will rotate through Al Qaim. My tour here at Al Qaim is going to end soon anyways. All the time here is combat flight time, but the missions where you shoot are occasional. Not everyone has shot. Some have shot several times.

I'm 6 hours away from getting my Air Medal. Should get it in the next week. I should also get an Iraqi Campaign medal at the end of this deployment. Also a Presidential Unit Citation from my last tour and another Sea Service Deployment Ribbon for this one.

The media still reports what the public wants to hear and that's everything that will get a reaction from the American public. The worst thing is they don't care about what the effects will be for our cause here, but merely selling a few extra news papers or magazines. It's Capitalism at the expense of a successful war campaign.

I saw the news about the Taliban burnings. Again, I think our bleeding hearts of America are going to bring about the ultimate demise of our country. We need to fight this the way our fore-fathers did in the bible. We have the power and it's the only way these people will submit.

Mike

From: Martino Capt Michael D Sent: Tuesday, October 25, 2005 10:21 PM To: Mom & Dad Subject: RE: Oct. 25 2005

Hi Dad,

It's not as exciting as my first tour, but things could change. You never know. Like I said, it's mostly sitting and waiting with the occasional 2 hours of excitement. I will give you details when I get home. I'll be headed back to TQ tomorrow, so it should slow down for me.

Yeah, I'm still on the night shift. No matter how much sleep I get, I'm still tired for the first few hours of my shift. There's no indication that I will be going to the day shift any time soon. It will happen eventually because there is a big disparity in flight hours between the day crew and night crew. If they want to avoid a mutiny in the squadron, they'll need to start swapping crews.

40 The squadron produced the papers for me and two other pilots to sign up for another 6 years of service. In doing so, I'll be making an additional $18K a year in bonus money, but now I'm obligated for 6 more years of service in he Marines and at that point I may as well make it 10 so I can collect my retirement. I haven't signed the papers yet, because I want to wait until the Majors board results come out. I'm not qualified for the bonus unless I'm a Major or Major Select anyways, but it gives me some time to mull over the commitment I'm about to make. I'll probably sign the papers, but I still want to wait a bit before doing it. There's no rush at this point.

That's all I have for now. Talk to you later.

Love, Mike

-----Original Message----- From: Michael To: Chuck Nelson (brother-in-law)

Sent: Fri, 28 Oct 2005 8:57 PM Subject: RE: Thanks Mike

Hello Chuck,

The weather is a bit strange here right now. It's been about 50 at night and in the morning, but the afternoon it's about 85. Last night it warmed up to about 60 at night. The hardest thing about my shift is getting used to being up at midnight. I still fly a little in the afternoon. In fact, most my flights have been during day light hours.

I was surprised when my buddy told me about the book. I think my parents are sending me a copy to read. I heard it's mostly about the Company Commander I was attached with and my Bn CO.

The Marines were essentially in static positions and exchanged gun-fire continuously with the Insurgents. The FACs were used extensively to sub-due the situation. When a fire-fight erupted, the Bn wasn't asking for the Company COs to get out there, it was the FACs. Which is why we were on patrol 24/7 between the three of us.

I'm actually thinking of writing a book myself, but from a FACs perspective. I'm not much of a writer, but I'm considering giving it a try. I think there's a side of the story that isn't being properly portrayed during that battle.

Chuck, your a good man. Your certainly a good thing for my sister. I don't think I could have taken on the task that you have. Tell Sydney and Devyn I said hello and I miss them also. Tell them that I miss their Sponge Bobs also.

Mike

-----Original Message----- From: Martino Capt Michael D Sent: Friday, October 28, 2005 9:53 PM To: Mom & Dad Subject: RE: Oct. 25 2005 Hello Mom and Dad,

I'm back from Al Qaim. The FAC tour certainly paid off. If it weren't for the luck of the situation I was put in, it probably would have been a poor choice. In retrospect though, I was the one who endured those 7 months, so I wouldn't call it complete luck. It was an uncomfortable situation, but I made it and I deserve to capitalize on my success.

Much of the Marine Corps ends up being luck and who likes you. Some COs like pilots better than others just on personal reasons. That doesn't make it right, but for me the FAC tour was my big break. Brought out by shear luck. My Battalion was originally supposed to be on a MEU. We got hand picked to take over Fallujah and even then the air war was supposedly over. Which explains why the Marine Corps pulled all their Jets and Tankers back to the states. I was essentially supposed to be a duty officer for the Battalion.

I've talked this over with several Majors that I trust and they all think I should leave the squadron after this deployment. Only because it would keep me on track for picking up LtCol. That would negate any chances of me going to WTI, which I can accept. You don't have to be a WTI to be a LtCol.

Most guys are Division Leaders when the leave the squadron. I can get this before I leave the squadron. Yesterday one of the Majors asked me if I wanted to be in the Night Systems Instructor (NSI) syllabus. This is a big qual because the only thing after that is WTI. Of course I said yes, but it still has to be approved by the CO. I should be able to at least get my Division Leader before I depart.

I don't think the Gunfighters will screw me. Like I said, right now I have the choice of maybe going to WTI or leaving the squadron and staying on track to maybe pick up LtCol. I think I will only stay with the squadron if they promise WTI. Otherwise, I'll get my quals and leave sometime next November. By staying with the squadron right now, I may be able to pick up WTI but I'm not going to get the AMO or OPSO billet. They are going to give that to the senior Majors.

I will have to take my NSI and Division Leader (which are good quals) and depart the squadron for a few years. In doing so, I can come back to the squadron as a senior Major and more likely to get the AMO OPSO billet. This however is no guarantee. It's a guessing game

42 right now and I will have to wait until closer to the end of this deployment to be able to make a better call. The squadron is probably being pressured by higher to have pilots re-up. That's why they are pushing the papers, not because they want me to stay with the squadron.

The Major I fly with is hooking me up. He's writing off some of my flights in Al Qaim as Weapons Training Instructor (WTO) X's . After that is the Division Leader syllabus. He understands my situation and is going out of his way to help me out. I still haven't heard anything else about the Bronze Star.

Well, that' all I have for now. BTW, I married an Iraqi woman the other day. Hope I answered all your questions this time. I wouldn't want to get another angry e-mail.

Love, Mike

P.S. Just kidding about the Iraqi woman

From: Dad Sent: Saturday, October 29, 2005 6:53 AM To: Martino Capt Michael D Subject: RE: Oct. 25 2005

Mike,

Thanks for the email and yes you did answer all my questions. It all sounds very good from your perspective. You have a lot of options for your career. I am glad you are now thinking beyond Major and looking at Lt. Colonel. I never understood why you wanted to limit your goals like that. Years from today when you are married and with a family of your own you will see the benefit to your long term earning power once you are out of the Marines. It sounds like some of the Majors in your squadron are really trying to help you along.

Love, Dad From: Mom Sent: Wednesday, November 02, 2005 10:33 AM To: Michael’s Family Subject: Marine Fatalities in Iraq

Text in quotes below is an excerpt from an email we received from Mike yesterday. It indicates another section of the book where he is mentioned and his take on the contents. The second paragraph indicates he is back from the Syrian border. The bad news is it's within 50 miles of where the two Marines were killed in action in Cobra helicopters today. This indicates that the Marines were probably from his unit. Needless to say, Dad and I are basket cases right now until we hear from Mike again. Please say your prayers that he is safe any pray for the family of the Marine pilots killed.

43 “I received the book and the coffee yesterday. Thank you. I found the other spot in the book where I'm mentioned. It's Page 66 at the bottom. It doesn't go into much detail about the decision making process. The book had a lot of material to cover, so it didn't go that in depth. The part on Pg 66 wasn't completely accurate nor on Pg 200. On Pg 66 is when we first moved into the city and the first time I used the AC-130. It wasn't as simple as "Go ahead and shoot". It was a running conversation in order to make me reasonably sure that the people they saw were hostile and not the other company to the left of us. On Pg 200, the cobras never rain spent casing on us that was a different engagement. They were, however, not prompt enough in their response to support us. When the did show up, I was using the PGMs off the aircraft and lasing the targets for them. Never-the-less, it captured the situation pretty well. FYI, all the air that is mentioned with Capt Zembiec's Company (Echo, 2/1), was air that I controlled.

You know I'm back at TQ again. The air strikes in Al Qaim have been a daily occurrence even though the media only covers it once in a blue moon. Everything else is fine here.”

We will let you know as soon as we hear from Mike indicating he is okay. It's about 8 hours difference between here and Iraq, i.e. it's 8 hours later in Iraq.

Daddy sent an email to our Marine friend Lt. Col. Gary Lambertson in North Carolina and asked him if he could find out what unit the Marines were from. We already know Gary will not tell us who they were as he had mentioned on a previous occasion to us that friends of his had asked in the past when a similar occasion happened with their son and Gary would not tell them. However, he might let us know whether or not it was his unit. I hate to say it, but Daddy and I are pretty sure it was his unit based on the location.

Love, Mom

From: Mom Sent: Wednesday, November 02, 2005 10:33 AM To: Michael Martino

Subject: Are you Okay? Importance: High

Mike,

Please email us IMMEDIATELY to let us know you are safe. We heard the news this a.m.

BAGHDAD, Iraq — A U.S. Marine attack helicopter crashed in Iraq on Wednesday, killing two service members, the military said. The AH-1W Super Cobra (search) went down shortly after 8 a.m. (midnight EST) near Ramadi, 70 miles west of Baghdad, killing the two crew members, the military said.

Love, 44 Mom ______

While waiting for Michael’s reply to her email, Mike’s mom listened to FOX news hoping to hear more information which might indicate it was not Michael’s helicopter. Later that morning, 3 Marines, including 1st Sgt Rick Caisse (CACO) arrived at Michael’s parent’s home in Nellysford, Virginia, and informed them that Michael was, in fact, one of the pilots on the helicopter that had been shot down…

Figure 36 - Iraqi Boy Exams Wreckage

On 2 November 2005, while flying in support of security operations near Ar Ramadi, Iraq, Capt Michael Martino’s helicopter was shot down by a surface-to-air missile (SA-6). Both Michael and his fellow pilot Major Gerald “Jer” Bloomfield were killed. Maj Bloomfield was the pilot flying the Cobra and Capt Martino was operating the weapons. It is believed that the missile used was a Soviet supplied missile to Iran and ultimately HAMAS in Syria. The insurgent that actually fired the missile was known as “missile man” by locals as he was responsible for shooting at other aircraft in the region.

The following is a recount of events of the mission according to the Commanding Officer (CO) of HMLA-369, Lt. Col. Thomas Weidley…

Michael’s Cobra was flying a compound unit operation, consisting of a UH-1 Huey Gunship commanded by the Executive Officer (X.O.) of the squadron, Major Mike Martinez and co-piloted by 1st Lt Richard Witt, and an AH-1W Cobra Attack Helicopter (a two piloted aircraft) flown by Maj. Bloomfield while Michael operated the weapons and sensors. The Heuy was designated the ‘dash one unit’, and the Cobra was designated the ‘dash two unit’ of the missions Gunshot 65 (GT65) and Gunshot 66 (GT66) respectively. The two aircraft had been called in to provide support for a Marine Engineering Unit that was under attack by a large group of insurgents just outside of Ar Ramadi, Iraq.

Upon entering the area at about 2,500 feet, both helicopters came under intense fire. Maj. Martinez called for the units to do a butterfly break maneuver. This maneuver split

45 the two units…the ‘dash one’ breaking left and Michael’s Cobra breaking right. It was at this point that the Cobra was painted by the SA-6 and locked on.

At 0815 the subsequent explosion of the missile destroyed the tail section of the Cobra causing it to fall uncontrolled to the ground. The total time of the incident took less than 10 seconds. The damage done was catastrophic with no chance of emergency landing. It was subsequently found that all of the anti-missile detection and protection systems on the Cobra were set and working at the time. There was no pilot error or equipment malfunction.

Immediately following the crash, the dash 1 unit…Gunshot 65…landed in the courtyard where Gunshot 66 had crashed. The co-pilot and gunner tried to recover Mike and Jerry, but were taking heavy fire from the insurgents. The Cobra was on fire, and they were not able to remove the pilots. Gunshot 65 finally left the crash scene and flew to where the Marine combat engineers were conducting road repair work. Lt. Col. Martinez asked for volunteers to secure the crash site. Every Marine in the unit volunteered! Gunshot 65 picked up five members of the Engineering Team and delivered them to secure the crash site.

The Quick Reaction Force (QRF) from Camp Ramadi arrived minutes after GT65 had left the scene. They were in an “on again”, “off again” running gunfight as they pushed into the crash site which was about 400 meters south of their ingress Landing Zone (LZ). The QRF was made up primarily of soldiers from the 1st Platoon A Troop, 1st Battalion, 167th Calvary, which joined up with the five Marines from the Engineering Unit at 0930.

The crash sight was in a suburban neighborhood with one and two story houses. As soon as the insertion helicopters lifted off, insurgent machinegun fire and AK-47 fire was encountered. The Marines had established a parameter in the house adjoining the wreckage. However, security at the wreckage could not be established due to the cooking off of 20mm cannon projectiles and missiles from the downed aircraft. An AH- 1W Cobra section (Gunshot 61) arrived and flew a tight racetrack pattern over the wreckage to keep insurgents out and to provide security for the QRF. A team of firefighters arrived at the LZ and began firefighting and recovery operations at 1015. Another section of Cobras (Gunshot 67 and 70) arrived at the scene and took over security of the wreckage and recovery operation. Gunshot 67 was piloted by Mike’s friend and former tent mate Maj. Mike Manifor. The marines immediately were engaged with small arms fire and a surface-to-air missile (SAM) which they violently maneuvered to avoid as it passed between the two helicopters.

A reinforced armored platoon from the 3rd Battalion, 172nd Infantry Regiment, Vermont Army National Guard, Jericho, VT, commanded by 2nd Lt. Mark J. Procopio (age 28) and his patrol were finishing up a patrol to the Northwest of the crash site. The area of 2nd Lt. Procopio’s patrol and where GT66 went down was located north of the Euphrates River, and was insurgent territory. Mark and his platoon were on the way back to Forward Operating Base (FOB) Ramadi when they got word of the shoot down. Like the professional soldier and leader that he was, 2nd Lt. Procopio moved to the sound of the guns in order to help. Unfortunately, in so doing his patrol went into terrain that

46 had never been cleared or occupied by Coalition forces. The insurgents had established a defensive obstacle and IED belts around their base areas, and the only way in or out was via roads that they had been mined. They were on route NOVA, which was the main road to the north of the river that paralleled it.

As they approached a chokepoint, the insurgents fired off a command detonated IED that killed 2nd Lt. Procopio and knocked out his vehicle…the lead HMMWV. He was killed instantly, and the rest of his crew was knocked around by the blast. The insurgents were very proficient and effective fighters. They knew our doctrine and tactics, and had emplaced the IED in the exact spot where it would take out the person in the front passenger seat of the HMMWV, which is where the Vehicle Commander sits. They targeted those positions and leaders specifically. Once Mark was killed the patrol was unable to continue and returned to base. They were about 2,000 meters away from the crash site at the time. Another QRF consisting of armored vehicles was launched, but could not make it through the obstacle belts and muddy terrain that separated the crash site from them.

At 1100 the fire at the crash site was out and the bodies of Capt. Michael “Martini” Martino and Maj. Gerald “Beav” Bloomfield and were recovered.

The Marine Engineers and several of the Calvary soldiers established a parameter, pushed south and were engaged by insurgent gunfire. The insurgents were moving between a building and a wall, and the Joint Tactical Air Controller requested Gunshot 67/70 for an attack geometry to engage the targets. Both Cobras were cleared and ran gun runs on the target location. They were then cleared for Hellfire runs on the target buildings that the insurgents were using. Numerous insurgents were observed moving farther to the south to another house. After searching the destroyed house, one insurgent was captured and detained. As the Cobras checked off two F/A 18D aircraft were cleared to the insurgent strong point to the south located in another house. They proceeded to drop two 500 lb bombs on the house completely destroying it, and all those inside.

At one point there were ten sections (two aircraft per section) overhead of the crash sight including an F/A 18 and EA6-B and close air support helicopters. It was an admirable trait of Marine aviators to stay on station with the obvious SAM threat present.

According to the investigation Mike and Gerry died instantly and did not suffer at the hands of insurgents that rushed to the site between the time that Gunshot 65 took off from the scene and returned with the five Engineers. The insurgents had attempted but were unable to remove the bodies from the Cobra. They did however remove some personal items.

Capt. Mike Manifor, a close friend of Michaels, was flying as a section called Gunshot 67/70, and was the first helicopter in to provide Close Air Support on station that day. He ended up providing Hellfire and 20mm cannon fire for the TRAP team while they maneuvered to get to Mike and Jerry.

47 The question that always remained with the Martino family was did they get the person or people responsible for the SAM attack. Our family was positively assured that the person was killed in a “black operation” a couple of weeks later. It appears that “Missileman” as he was known could not keep his mouth shut and bragged about shooting down the helicopter to people in Fallujah. His bragging was overheard by sources and reported. He was identified as the son of a local tribal Sheik. During the Black Ops night operation, “Missileman” was dealt with!

The above events were provided to the family by a reliable source. The issue with the shooting down of the Cobra became one of vulnerabilities of the aircraft that was exploited by the newer SAM-6 missiles from Iran. Because of the crash of Gunshot 66, a modification has since been made to the Cobra’s exhaust to baffle and defuse the heat generated by the jet engines to reduce the heat signature of the Cobra and thus prevent similar disasters.

A later unrelated event occurred that provided outside confirmation of the Black Operation mentioned in the previous paragraphs. On a return trip from their Sneads Ferry, NC, vacation home to their residence in Nellysford, VA, Mike’s parents stopped at an O’Charleys Restaurant in Virginia. Their waiter noticed Michael’s father was wearing an HMLA-369 T-Shirt. A subsequent discussion with the waiter disclosed that he was a RECON Marine that had provided perimeter defense for a Black OP about two weeks after the crash to take out a high value target. The waiter knew it was in response to shooting down a helicopter earlier. In his words, the “black ops” vehicles went into a local home, were there about 30 minutes, then left, and he was ordered to pull out. Although this is not specifically related to Michael’s death, it brings closure to the events that ended his life and changed our lives forever.

Mike was awarded an Air Medal for Valor while flying combat missions in support of Marine Combat Operations. The flight line crew later would say that he and Maj. Bloomfield would always come back “Winchester empty” of weapons having expended them all in combat. Below is the commendation summary for his Air Medal for Valor.

Recommended Citation: For heroic achievement in aerial flight while serving as the co- pilot of an AH-1W Super Cobra Helicopter, while assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369, Marine Aircraft Group 26 (Reinforced), 2d Marine Aircraft Wing Forward, II Marine Expeditionary Force, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Central on 2 November 2005, in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. Captain Martino's aircraft was directed to support 3d Battalion, 6th Marines who were receiving significant enemy small arms and rocket propelled grenade fire near the town of Sadah, Iraq. Upon check-in with the forward air controller, he helped develop a plan that ensured mission success, assisted by his previous combat experience as a forward air controller. Adroitly managing the sensors, weapons, and communications, he efficiently identified and executed two successful hellfire missile engagements on enemy positions. During a subsequent rocket and gun attack, the flight received a high volume of fire from enemy positions. Despite the 20mm cannon jamming and no immediate suppressive fires, he displayed valor and dogged determination by staying on the sensors to direct his rear seat pilot onto the source of the enemy fires. His actions resulted in the delivery of effective rocket fires, which drew fire upon himself and allowed the lead aircraft to safely pull off target. As a result of his decisive action, two enemy positions were

48 destroyed, numerous enemies were eliminated, and no friendly forces were injured. By his skillful airmanship, steadfast aggressiveness, and exemplary devotion to duty in the face of hazardous flying conditions, Captain Martino gallantly gave his life for his country and reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

The Combat Distinguishing Device is authorized.

Michael was posthumously promoted to Major shortly after his death. The promotion had been in the works, but unfortunately Michael would never learn of it.

The following is an email from Michael’s Dad to Michael Grice, author of the article “Going After GT66“ and Grice’s response.

From: Robert A.Martino Sent: Monday, Jan 21, 2013 at 8:25 AM To: Mike Grice Subject: Re: Going after GT66 Dear Sir,

I am Maj. Michael Martino’s (Martini) dad. First I would like to thank you for your action in retrieving my son and Gerry. It would have been even more heartbreaking had the insurgents recovered them and done to them what was done to the helicopter crew in Mogadishu, Somalia, or to the contractors in Fallujah.

I have been reading the article that you wrote and would like to get a better understanding of the events that immediately happened after my sons A/C was shot down. As Mike was single and had never been married, my wife and I wanted to document his life for his nieces and nephews who never got to know him. As this was his last day alive, we know the questions would arise as to how he died and what occurred after.

I would specifically like to know about the attempt the UH-1 Huey made to recover the crew. It is my understanding that Lt. Col. Martinez flew into the courtyard and took small arms heavy fire and had to leave and bring back Marines from and Engineering unit nearby. There was also a Vermont NG unit that dispatched as QRC to the site and encountered an IED which killed 1st Lt. Mark Procopio.

Any information you can provide would be extremely helpful.

Thank you

Sincerely, Robert A. Martino

From: Mike Grice Sent: Monday, January 21, 2013 12:17 PM

49 To: Robert A.Martino Subject: Re: Going after GT66

Hi Robert,

Hello, and it is very nice to meet you. I am very sorry for your loss, as even though over seven years have passed the pain never goes away.

I am glad to help you in any way that I can. I know about GT65's actions anecdotally because we arrived on scene after they had dropped off the engineers, but from what I understand they initially landed in the courtyard where GT66 crashed and attempted to recover the crew. Unable to get them out, they then flew to where five combat engineers were conducting road repair work and picked them up and delivered them to secure the site.

The QRF from Camp Ramadi (which I was with) arrived minutes after GT65 left. We were in an on again, off again running gunfight as we pushed into the crash site which was about 400 meters south of our ingress LZ. We linked up with the engineers, and the story of that is pretty well covered in the article.

Mark Procopio and his patrol were finishing up a patrol to the Northwest of the crash site. The area of his patrol and where GT66 went down was north of the Euphrates river, and was insurgent territory. Mark and his platoon were on the way back to FOB Ramadi when they got word of the shootdown. Like the professional soldier and leader that he was, he moved to the sound of the guns in order to help.

Unfortunately, in doing so his patrol went into terrain that had never been cleared or occupied by Coalition forces. The insurgents had established defensive obstacle and IED belts around their base areas, and the only way in or out was via roads that they had mined. If memory serves they were on route NOVA, which was the main road to the north of the river that paralleled it.

As they approached a chokepoint, the insurgents fired off a command detonated IED that killed Lt Procopio and knocked out his vehicle (the lead HMMWV). He was killed instantly, and the rest of his crew was knocked around by the blast. (The insurgents were very proficient and effective fighters. They knew our doctrine and tactics, and had emplaced the IED in the exact spot where it would take out the person in the front passenger seat of the HMMWV, which is where the Vehicle Commander sits. They targeted those positions and leaders specifically).

Once Mark was killed, the patrol was unable to continue and returned to base. They were about 2,000 meters away from us at the time. Another QRF consisting of armored vehicles was launched, but could not make it through the obstacle belts and muddy terrain that separated us from them.

I did know really know Mark but had met him in passing. He was a positive young man with a very impressive mustache…quite the rage for deployed folks. He was with 1-172, which is an armored unit from Vermont.

50 For what it's worth, I have thought about November 2d, 2005 every day since.

Also, your son died instantly. He did not suffer at the hands of the insurgents who rushed the site between the time that GT65 took off and returned with the engineers.

Please let me know if I can be of greater assistance. I would be honored to help.

Mike

PART 5 – SERVICES, MEMORIALS AND VARRIOUS TRIBUTES

A. USMC Iraq Memorial Service – November 5, 2005

On November 5, friends and fellow Marines honored Michael and Jerry with a memorial service in Iraq. Capt Brian Ashford spoke for Mike at his memorial service. They knew each other since flight school and were good friends. The following are Brian’s words…

“Michael David Martino was born on January 31st, 1973, on the island of Kwajalein, the youngest of 3 children. He and his family lived there until he was 8, when they moved to Irvine, California, where he grew up and fell in love with Southern California.

In 1996, Mike graduated from the University of California, San Diego with a B.A. in Economics and was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps. He reported to The Basic School in the fall of 1996, but seriously injured his knee in the beginning phases of training and took almost a year to recover. Mike often complained about his knee and how it kept him from doing what he loved for almost a year, but if it weren’t for his injury, most of us here would probably not have known him.

1st Lt Martino graduated from TBS in the summer of 1998 and reported to NAS Pensacola for flight training. He joined VT-2 and excelled in the flight syllabus. With his grades, he could have flown anything he wanted, but he wanted to fly helicopters.

In January of 1999, he checked into HT-8 and worked his way to the top of his class. At the time, AH-1W slots were very hard to come by, so he made sure he was number one to guarantee himself a slot on the West Coast.

Captain Martino was winged in July of 2000 and headed home to Southern California to HMT- 303. Captain Martino always wanted to be a Gunfighter, but upon completion of the RAG, he checked into HMLA-367. He deployed once with HMLA-367 to Okinawa and was part of the main body and 31st MEU during their 13-month deployment.

When Scarface returned, Capt Martino volunteered for a FAC tour with 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines at Camp Pendleton. Capt Martino deployed with 2/1 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom 2-1 where his actions during the April 2004 Fallujah offensive earned him the Combat Action Ribbon and recommendation for the Bronze Star.

51 After his tour with 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines, Capt Martino checked in to HMLA-369 in December 2004 where he has since served as the assistant S-1 Officer and Airframes Officer In Charge. He flew with this Squadron for almost a year and considered the Gunfighters as his family.

Figure 37 – US Flag at Half Mass at Marine Base

Figure 38 – Gunshot 66 Plaque – Iraq Ready Room

Mike Martino was not one of those guys who monopolized dinner conversations or would be first to sing karaoke at the bar. He was a quiet, reserved guy who could light up a room with a smile. Once you got to know him, he was a loyal, trusting and dedicated friend. He loved his family and friends, and he always kept in touch. After every move or deployment, change of phone number or trip back east, he would call to say he was back and check in.

Mike was best in smaller or one-on-one situations. He was thoughtful and honest and a very good listener and it was during those times that you really got to know him and see what he was made of.

Mike was intense in everything he did. He studied constantly and was always striving to be the best. He was competitive with himself and eagerly absorbed knowledge in an effort to better his skills as a pilot and as an Officer of Marines.

Mike Martino’s two great loves in life were the Marine Corps and the Washington Redskins. He couldn’t watch an entire game if the Redskins were losing…he wasn’t a fair weather fan, he just couldn’t watch them lose.

Mike always came to a gathering with something to share…not because he thought he needed to, but because he was truly thoughtful and polite.

He wasn’t the kind of guy that ever wanted to be the center of attention, but he genuinely enjoyed being part of the group. When you harassed him about his call sign or some other point, he would shrug it off with a quick story, never really getting into it because he just didn’t want the spotlight.

53 Mike Martino was a single guy who seemed to have a lot of married friends. It wasn’t a huge circle of friends, but the ones he did keep were close to his heart. He was the kind of guy who would pick up a dinner or drink tab quietly, but never let you re-pay him. He was a well- known penny pincher, and I think he really enjoyed being able to spend his money on his friends and family when he could. He never felt awkward hanging out with the married crowd, and we always thought of him as part of the family.

To those closest to him, Mike Martino wore his heart on his sleeve. He wasn’t a big talker about feelings, but his actions spoke volumes about his dedication to his friends and family. He loved his brother Robert and his sister Lauri and never missed an opportunity to talk about his nieces Devyn and Sydney.

He seemed to always be working or playing. It was all or nothing most of the time. He was always studying or preparing for something. He was sarcastic and funny…a friend we could trust to not think less of us because of our antics and a person who forgave everyone for their faults including those who had done him wrong.

It took time to get to know Mike Martino. He was not self-absorbed, but shy… not arrogant, but constantly striving to be better at everything he was: brother, son, friend and Marine.

We were fortunate because we did know him. He was a Gunfighter and he was our friend and brother.”

B. November 9, 2005 - Comments from Lt Col. Thomas Weidley, Mike's Commanding Officer in Iraq Sent to His Parents

I did not know Mike in any of my previous units, but first met him when he joined my Squadron after he returned from his ground tour with 2/1 last spring. His reputation preceded him as a warrior both on the ground and in the air. My thought was that his experiences on the ground in Iraq would translate over into our preparations to return to Iraq - this time flying overhead. I was right. As we continually refined our training plan to prepare for Iraq, his experiences and recommendations were always spot on.

He got back to flying in the Cobra and came up-to-speed quickly – very quickly in fact. I was very pleased with his progression and training pace. He also served as the Squadron's Administration Officer, although not a coveted billet in the unit, it was a good fit for him initially, while he got back into flying and becoming proficient. He performed extremely well, always ahead of the game and 3-4 steps ahead of me. He was doing so well - both on the ground and in the air, that I "rewarded" him with a job change - down into our Maintenance Department, in charge of 63 Marines in our Airframes division (the second largest shop in the Squadron). I "rewarded" him with longer hours, and the care of 63 Marines. He was beside himself. He loved being around the Marines, and this was his opportunity to put his leadership skills to the test. He thanked me repeatedly, and I told him that his actions were responsible. His Marines loved him almost as much as he loved them. The shop was focused, prepared for combat, and without issue (no discipline issues).

He was so excited to be here, doing what he loved to do, with the people he loved to do it 54 with - his Gunfighter Family. He continued to perform above my expectations. He had engaged our enemies numerous times over the past month with great success, and I don't think his blood pressure rose a bit. He was the quiet professional. Calm, even keeled, level headed, never the one to draw attention to himself. He was always in the books, studying his aircraft, weapons systems and the enemy. One of the smartest pilots we have. You could always count on a well thought out come-back to any jab you gave him. He was intense, but you wouldn't know it by looking at him at first glance, but if you watched him closely, you could see that everything he did was deliberate and with purpose, particularly in the air. He was always in position, and always got ordnance off on the first pass.

On 2 Nov, he was providing overhead security for a convoy traveling between bases, when his aircraft was engaged by the enemy. The attack caused a catastrophic loss of several main components of the aircraft, and it fell from the sky.

An Army Second Lieutenant (Mark Procopio) was killed by an IED racing to Mike's aid, stating simply "they need our help, they are all alone" as he gathered his platoon and volunteered for the mission. We lost 3 great men that day - heroes each one of them.

The sheer fact that we have men and women in our society today that are willing to volunteer to serve this great country of ours, defending freedom and liberty on a hostile foreign shore, continues to amaze me. Sacrifice, selfless service and uncommon valor are the staples of this generation of American Service members, to which Mike was a part. We miss him terribly. He will never be forgotten. v/r LtCol Thomas "Wheels" Weidley CO, HMLA-369 Deployed 342-1213

Gunshot 66 ... We Will Never Forget

C. November 3-12, 2005 – Emails Sent To/From Major Thomas Dolan

-----Original Message----- From: Dolan Maj Thomas P Sent: Thursday, November 03, 2005 21:13 To: Lambertsen CIV Gary A Subject: RE: CAPT MIKE MARTINO'S AWARD SUBMISSION

Sir, Mike was not only one of my Captains but my friend. I served with him in HMLA-367 when he was a "boot" Lt and I was one of his instructors, and we both served as Forward Air Controllers last year (I was with a different command, but I tracked his progress and got reports from his commanders). His recent assignment put him underneath my supervision, something that I asked for specifically because I knew what caliber man he was. I've watched Mike mature in to a fine Marine Officer, person, and warrior. Unfortunately this is not the 1st time that I have had to bury a friend and/or one of my men, but this one especially hurts; feels like I lost my kid brother.

55 The issue with the Bronze Star is in full swing. Shortly after the shoot down (once the dust settled back here). I contacted all the players involved and re-energized the process. Currently our MAG-XO (LtCol McCrary, stationed at MAG-39, Camp Pendleton), is pushing hard (he is a good man). Just heard that the award is up at I MEF HQ. Hopefully they will resolve the situation soon. My best guess is that it will get approved, if it meets any resistance I'm pretty damn sure the Group XO and CO will throw some weight around. I will keep you posted. My biggest fear is that for some reason it does not get approved, the Martino's have suffered enough, don't want any more undue pain on them.

Mike was highly respected, especially by the Marines of 2/1. Grunts are hard to impress, but Mike's actions last year made them view him not as a pilot, but as a leader of Marines who can get the job done despite the chaos and carnage of ground combat. He turned out to be one of the finest leaders in this squadron, his men (he was the OIC of a 40 man shop) were especially hurt. They knew that Capt Martino was always there for them.

We have a memorial service for Mike and Maj Bloomfield on Saturday. I'm the speaker on Mike's behalf. If you or the Martino's want me to say anything in specific, please contact me. Also, I want to write to them once the process is over. I really looked at him like a brother, my relationship with him was different than the other Capts. Pretty broken up over the whole affair.

I will keep you posted Tom

From: Dolan Maj Thomas P Sent: Friday, November 04, 2005 8:26 PM To: Sybil Martino Subject: RE: Capt. Michael Martino (Oprah)

Mr. and Mrs. Martino, Thank you for writing me. In summation: I don't know what I can say to help ease your pain in the loss of your fine son. However I will try to explain what Mike was like as a Marine Officer, subordinate, and friend. What made Mike different from many of his peers was the fact that he looked at himself as a Marine Officer and leader of Marines first, and as a pilot second. That quality is what impressed me the most. Often many of the pilots get wrapped up in being a pilot. They sometimes lose sight of the fact that their commission says nothing about flying. The Commission and Oath of Office mandate us to support and defend the Constitution. We happen to carry out our nation's defense in the air but the prior statement is tantamount in all our decisions and actions as leaders.

Mike understood this concept better than any other of the Captains (not trying to put down the other pilots, they are all fine men and warriors, but few had the same grasp of the big picture as Mike). I often wondered why some pilots seem to grasp this concept better than others. My best guess it has to be a factor of their upbringing and life experiences. As his parents, you must have set a fine example for Mike. Your son was the very definition of selfless. He understood the concept of being a member of a team. He would do anything to help out his peers and subordinates, plus he would never ask for anything in return.

56 Whenever his Marines did something above and beyond, Mike would be standing at my door with recommended awards for his Marines. An example of his quiet professionalism was the story behind the Bronze Star scenario. Mike did not bring up that situation to me. One of the Captains he served with in Fallujah filled me in on the situation. That scenario reinforced 2 things I thought about your son:

1) He was not a complainer. Others might have argued their case, but Mike just accepted it and did not want to put the onus on anyone to take care of him. It just was not his style. Once again, selfless.

2) Mike was a warrior. The fact that a combat experienced infantry Company Commander made it a point to come see some Major from a different command and explain a potential oversight says to me that Mike made a big impression on him. The other Captain obviously developed a significant amount of respect for Mike during a very trying period.

Kind of going out of order here, but I'll step back a few years to when I 1st met Mike. He joined HMLA-367 during the end of my tour there (I think it was 2000/2001). I was a very senior Captain at the time. Mike was one of the "nugget" Lts who just checked in. I flew a bunch of his early flights as his instructor. Mike was always prepared and motivated. I recognized that despite his quiet demeanor. The kid had a fire inside him. He was one of those diamonds in the rough who you knew would do great things when given the opportunity. He never was one of the "fraternity house" boys, Mike would always be off to the side listening and observing, but he never was one to try to be the center of attention. But he was also not a wallflower. It seemed to me that he was always assessing the other pilots trying to determine which ones were worth listening to and which ones were full of BS.

Because of that, Mike picked his friends carefully. The guys he befriended had a common theme: strong moral values…the type of guys who would defend a friend to the death. You can tell a lot about someone by the friends they had. Mike would not put up with clowns; however, he would not talk bad about them or put them down. He would simply ignore them. Very admirable trait, but you all know that.

After I left 367 I kept close ties to the squadron and talked to him about how things were going. When he went to Okinawa, I knew he was tortured by the fact that he missed the Operation Iraqi Freedom I (OIF I). He was chomping at the bit to get in to the fight, but he got stuck on the "Rock". Emotionally draining times for him; he so badly wanted to fight for his country but the cards did not play out that way.

When Mike told me that he was becoming a FAC for 2nd Bn/1st Marines, I was very pleased. I knew how important a quality FAC is for an infantry unit, and I knew Mike would be the man to have with you during the chaos of ground combat. We both deployed last year to Iraq around the same time. I had a similar job as his but I worked for some other units and agencies, but the FAC community is small and we all kept tabs on each other. When the situation flared up in Fallujah last March Mike was smack dab in the middle of ground zero. The aircraft that usually supported me and my unit were working with Mike. They all knew "Oprah" and sang his praises.

I had several conversations with AC-130 crewmembers who would ask me if I knew "Oprah". They were all very impressed with his composure while under fire. I told them that all Marine FACs were like that, but I knew that Mike was tougher than most. Fallujah and the corresponding battles really test the rock in which men are built on. You really get to know the true value of a man when bullets are flying and people are dying and you know your chances of getting killed are high. By all accounts Mike not only performed superbly, he constantly pushed his bosses to let him get out in to the fight.

57 Any patrol that came up Mike volunteered to go out on. All Marines will push to get into the fight initially; however the true test is to push to get back into the fight after you have felt it 1st hand. I know Mike must have been scared going out on those missions; however, he would not let anyone down and felt it his moral obligation to support the young men who so desperately needed his skills as a FAC and a leader.

Young Marines will do anything, enter any fight, and not show that they are scared. However, they are scared. By them seeing Capt Martino patrolling side by side with them with his radio and mind full of knowledge, they get a sense of security that if they get in to a bad situation Captain Martino would be the man to get the Cavalry on target to protect them. Just by being with them increases the combat effectiveness of the individual young Marine. They need to know that their big brother is there for them. (On many of his patrols no aircraft were overhead. Of course, he did not let the young men know that. All they knew was that Captain Martino would protect them). Mike understood this, and did whatever he could to motivate and protect the sons of his nation.

Getting a bit long winded, my mind is full of numerous thoughts, but I don't want to drag on. What I can say about your son was that I was damn proud of him. Watched him mature over the past 5 years in to a man who any family would be proud of. I miss him dearly. We were on the same shift out here so we even got to spend more time with each other. Mike was somewhat new to the squadron so many of the guys did not know him so well. However, over the past month the pilots on our shift got to know Mike. They would all say, "hey sir, Martino is actually a funny guy", or "I did not know Mike did that in Fallujah, man has got some balls". As they got to know Mike, like I knew Mike, their opinion of him grew exponentially. His quiet professionalism shined through.

I'm sorry that I can't really express my personal feelings for Mike as clearly as I wish…not too good at the touchy feely stuff. I am the youngest child in a family of four, but I think of Mike like I think of how my brother thinks of me. I really feel like I lost my little brother. Don't know how/why I developed this bond with him. Perhaps it was the instructor/student thing, or the shared experiences of last year, I don't know. Mike and I talked to each other quite a bit about our experiences on the ground, but the things we told each other we did not tell the other members of the squadron. Not sure why, but I felt more comfortable telling him about how I felt about situation X. I knew he understood, and it was between us. The man was a good listener.

I wish I could come to his funeral but that is obviously not an option. However, I will go and visit his grave when I get back. Not looking forward to that at all, but I know it is something I must do.

Please accept my deepest condolences. Your son will be missed.

Maj Tom Dolan

-----Original Message----- From: Dolan Maj Thomas P Sent: Thursday, November 10, 2005 4:04 PM To: R.A.Martino Subject: RE: A Personal Favor

Sir,

Unfortunately the video did happen. I can't get in to the specific timeline, but I can tell you about what happened. (I have not seen the video, but several of the Capt's have and have filled me in). The locals did not desecrate Mike’s body. They tried to get him out, but he was stuck. They took his helmet and stuff from his vest. They also did the same with Maj Bloomfield. I don't believe the initial

58 locals were insurgents or terrorists. They were local “looky-loos” who were intrigued by a helicopter crashing in their neighborhood and were looking for stuff to steal.

About 10-15 minutes later, the dirt bags probably started showing up, but concurrently that is when the UH-1 (flown by our XO, a good man) came in and scared them all away (gunfire was employed). Mike and Beav (Bloomfield’s nickname), bodies’ were not beaten, spit on, or had any other disgusting actions taken upon. The arrival of the XO and his crew most likely (I'm actually convinced) prevented any disgraceful situation from happening. When the dust settles I will fill you in with some brave actions taken by the crew and the Marines and soldiers of the rescue attempt. Their actions prevented a potentially horrible situation from getting worse. So, no Mike's body was not desecrated. Hope this helps ease some of your concerns.

Tom

From: S.E. Martino Sent: Thursday, November 10, 2005 5:37 PM To: Mike’s Family Subject: Chopper crash

The emails above speak for themselves. It's very hard for me not to have hate in my heart for these barbarians whether friend or foe. Needless to say, I am extremely upset, but also grateful that our military was able to recover both pilots.

I guess what keeps us going when we hear things like this is answering all the emails, phone calls, arrangement making, etc. I'm not sure we can make it through another two weeks of this though. Emotionally exhausting.

On Nov. 8, Bob and I, Bobby and Scotty (cousin) were present at the funeral home in Arlington, VA, when Mike arrived from Dover, MD, where he had been escorted to Arlington by a marine friend that had gone to TBS (Marine Basic School) in Quantico, VA, as well as flight school with Mike. Mike was met at the funeral home by an honor guard of Marines which included a friend of Bob's from Northrop Grumman (NGC) that he used to work with. (Bob's NGC friend had called and requested the honor.

Mike's friend that escorted him from Dover to Arlington told us that on the way down everyone was honking their horns and pulling over as they drove by in honor of Michael. It's things like that that help us get through this.

Sure love the Marine Corps and all the support they have given us these past eight days.

Mom/Sybil

-----Original Message----- From: Dolan Maj Thomas P To: R. A. Martino (E-mail); Sdskole (E-mail); Smartino (E-mail); Thebauers1 (E-mail); Thomas Gleeson (E-mail); Tomd1 (E-mail); Zamagniw (E-mail) Subject: Greetings again

All, sorry I have not written much lately. Obviously the loss of 2 of our pilots affected all of us but we are driving on. I know that most of you did not know Maj Jerry Bloomfield or Capt Mike Martino, so I will give you just a little information about them. You all sent me your condolences for our loss, so I figured I should tell you about them.

59 :

Capt Michael Martino (Mike), was the quintessential warrior. I often here people referred to as "warriors", but most of the time it is not truly applicable. Mike was one of the exceptions. Mike joined my old squadron (HMLA-367) when I was a senior captain. I was one of his instructors and got to know him well. I recognized early on that Mike was a quiet professional who came in to the USMC to do the hard things. Squadron Ready Rooms can sometimes be very Frat House like, the last bastion of testosterone filled one ups-manship. Mike never got in to that scene. He quietly sat off on the periphery and observed the antics from afar. However he was not the odd man out; he was the guy who was watching and analyzing the rest of us idiots and figuring out who was worth listening to and who was not. He would never talk BS about his peer. He simply would ignore the guys who were clowns. Following his tour with 367 Mike took a similar job to the one I had last year. Mike was attached to a USMC infantry Battalion that fought in Fallujah. I worked with him a couple of times in Iraq last year, and I heard from the Marines that he was with that Mike routinely demonstrated valor and poise despite the chaos of Fallujah. Made a great reputation for himself amongst the earthmen (infantry folks). The grunts/earthmen are a tough group to impress, especially now in light of all the combat they have seen. Hands down Mike's efforts led to them having the absolute utmost respect for him as a leader of Marines. For his actions he was put in for a Bronze Star (which is still being processed). Mike and I both checked in to our current unit this past spring. All the other pilots would ask me what it was like on the ground, they assumed I did a lot of cool/dangerous work. What they didn't know was that Mike actually saw a hell of a lot more dangerous stuff than I did. So what did Mike do? Did he point that out to them, compare his actions with others? No, Mike always played down what he did. When asked he would say a little bit, but I think he played it down because he did not want the other guys feel bad like the "listen man, I've been there, you have not, so you won't get it" speech that people sometimes do. Mike looked at what he did as his job and moral obligation. Nothing more, nothing less. Truth was that he went above and beyond; most of his peers here did not know that until now…The quiet professional/warrior. I had a unique relationship with Mike, I treated him differently from the other Captains. Unfair, possibly, but Mike rated it. He was my subordinate, but he was also my friend, kind of like the little brother I never had.

Tom

D. December 14, 2005 – Letters from Parents to Lt. Col Weidley and HMLA-369

The following are email correspondence between Michael’s parents to his Command Officer:

Lt. Col., T. D. Weidley, Commanding HMLOfficer United States Marine Corps Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369 Marine Aircraft Group 26 2d Marine Aircraft Wing (FWD) Unit 42070 FPO AP 96426-2070

Dear Lt. Colonel Weidley and HMLA-369 Gunfighters,

Let us first express our sincere thanks for the outpouring of support and sympathy from all of you, your wives and loved ones. It has been a strong source of support and inspiration for our family during this time of tremendous grief. We know we speak for our entire family when we say you are what make America great. We feel a strong kinship towards all of you. 60

Just before Michael left for this deployment, we noticed that he was a little melancholy. We asked him, “If you could do anything else, what would you like to do?” He quickly responded, “I’m doing what I love. I wouldn’t change what I’m doing.” Our son died living the life he had always dreamed, doing what he thought was right. How many people can say that?

Although we feel great sorrow at the loss of our son, we know that Michael loved his family, his Country and the Marine Corps. Michael believed that what he was doing was honorable and worthwhile, providing not only a chance for the Iraqi people to have freedom but also providing more security for all Americans back home. You all share in that honorable task. You are truly great and wonderful Americans to do what you do everyday for all of us. God bless you.

Michael also loved to fly and particularly loved his Gunfighter family. We know he was proud to serve with you. He also had the utmost respect and admiration for Lt. Colonel Weidley and Major Dolan. This is something that our son did not accord everybody he met. Michael always worked to be the best he could at whatever he did and recognized that the Gunfighters were an outfit that demanded the best.

Our family will continue to pray for your safe return to your loved ones. And when you do return, we hope you will keep in touch. You’re always welcome in our home.

Sincerely, Robert & Sybil Martino

14 December 2005

All Members of HMLA-369 c/o Lt. Col. T. D. Weidley, Commanding Officer United States Marine Corps Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369 Marine Aircraft Group 26 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (FWD) Unit 42070 FPO AP 96426-2070

To All Members of HMLA-369,

First we would like to express our sincere thanks for the outpouring of support and sympathy from HMLA-369 and your families. Michael was fortunate to serve with a unit with such a close fraternal brotherhood to each other.

As a Marine family, we appreciate the sacrifices and hardship that you all endure especially at this time of year. Our son spent two out of the last three years deployed during the holiday seasons. We know it is not easy on you or your families. We hope that you can take comfort in the fact that the majority of your fellow Americans appreciate and support what you are doing and the sacrifices you make. We can only imagine how difficult it must be in a foreign country, surrounded by millions of civilians, and not be able to tell the good guys from the bad guys.

Michael believed that what he was doing was honorable and worthwhile. He understood the big picture. He explained to us once that American armed forces must stay in Iraq until a free democratic and stable government was in place, no matter how long it took, even if the country had to do it alone. He believed it was in the best interest of our country for democracy to be established in the Middle East.

At the risk of sounding too political, we would like to share our thoughts and beliefs with you so you can understand our admiration for what you do for all Americans. It is amazing to realize that no one in Iraq under the age of 40 has ever known the freedom that we in this country take so much for granted. It is up to America to show the Iraqis just what they’re missing. Then and thereafter they will have something to lose because, freedom works and freedom is contagious! The top bad guys in Iraq understand this truth very well. That's why they are so afraid of free elections. Hopefully one day, at least one out of millions of free Iraqis will come up to you and say, "May I shake your hand to say thank you for your service to our country." You all share in a worthy mission.

By providing a chance for the Iraqi people to have freedom, you are also providing more security for all Americans back home. This war started long before 9-11 with such events as the bombing of the Marine barracks in Beirut, Lebanon, and the suicide bombing of the USS Cole in Yemen. These attacks were not about oil. They were about ideology and power. If we cut and run as some suggest, we will once again suffer the disaster of another 9-11.

Unfortunately, your mission in Iraq has become political fodder. Those that would risk the security of our country in order to garner power are reprehensible. They embolden an enemy that has witnessed our lack of resolve before and used it to keep the support of their followers. Do not let the few in this country who try to marginalize what you are doing make you lose faith. We admire all our Marines for the job you have done and continue to do. What you have done is something that has not been done in our lifetime. You have given an entire country the chance of freedom and democracy and that’s an accomplishment of immense historical significance.

The Iraqi people have their work cut out for them. History tells us that freedom does not come cheap and it's never been cheap to keep it. With help from free nations, the Iraqis will learn this truth but it will take time and more Iraqi blood.

At Michael’s church service in Virginia, his Uncle read the following during his eulogy. These words are just as appropriate today as they were 60 years ago.

"In war, there are no great men. Only ordinary men, who when faced with extraordinary circumstances, do great things."

Admiral William F. (Bull) Halsey Commander, US 3rd Fleet, Pacific Battle of Leyte Gulf, October 1944

The freedom train is now up on the rails, on the right track, headed in the right direction and you guys helped put it there. Thank you for your service to our country and to our continued freedom. You are truly great and wonderful Americans to do what you do everyday for all of us. God bless you.

With gratitude and deepest respect, Robert & Sybil Martino

E. Walker Chapel United Methodist Church Service, Arlington, VA – Nov 14, 2005

Michael’s service was held at the Walker Chapel United Methodist Church in Arlington, VA, on November 14, 2005 where friends and family from around the country congregated in his honor. 62

Figure 39 – Walker Chapel – United Methodist Church – 14 Nov 2005

Figure 40 – Michael’s Service - Walker Chapel – 14 Nov 2005

Eulogy: Robert A. Martino (father) – Nov. 14, 2005

Today our family puts to rest our beloved son and brother. Please forgive me if I am overcome and cannot make it through this myself and need to have somebody finish.

Michael was with us in life for 32 years and touched all of us differently, some as a friend or schoolmate, a fellow Marine, or as family. As his father, I am proud to have had been blessed with that honor. He was a good son, kind and loving of family and always thoughtful of others. Michael would always worry about the safety and health of his family, this while he was being exposed to some of the most dangerous action in combat. He would always volunteer to help with whatever you needed and never complained. Michael personified everything a father would want in a son. He loved sports, fishing and just about anything you wanted to do. He would even go shopping with you…just to spend time with you even though he hated it. He showed that quiet confidence, and determination that made you feel proud to be with him.

As far back as I can remember, Michael wanted to be a pilot. He would ride his bicycle from where we lived to El Toro MCAS every day the Blue Angels would be there. Leaving home at the crack of dawn and not returning until the gates closed. Michael brought this same determination to everything. In high school he made up for physical size and strength with courage and the tenacity of a bulldog. Only fitting that he would be a Marine.

Like everything else he focused on, this goal became central to his life. Like many things in life, it is not always easy. There were always obstacles, and he had to fight to get what he wanted. Sometimes it was like fate would continually throw up some insurmountable obstacle or slight him with some unfair event, but he would never waver in his dedication and determination to achieve his goal. A lesser person would have given up. His determination to be a good Marine and a pilot was testament to this. Michael’s dream was to be a pilot and to fly Cobras. How many of us get to live their dream?

In my heart I know he was a good Marine dedicated to the principles of honor, duty, and country…always looking out for his fellow Marines. That was the way he was with his family, and the Marines were his military family. My son was courageous and in my opinion a true warrior in the best traditions of the country that he loved and the Marine Corps. And he believed strongly in what he was doing. If I may speak for his family, we are all very proud of him.

Throughout the history of our great nation, men and women have been called on to defend our freedom and many have given their lives to preserve that freedom. My son joins those honored heroes. Today the Marines have lost a fellow Marine and warrior. His family has lost a treasured loved one. Our country has lost a good man and patriotic American. I have lost my friend, and a loving son.

Michael….Journey’s end. Rest in peace with God.

64 Eulogy: Sybil E. Martino (mother) – Nov. 14, 2005

Some one once said, “Each life is a miracle that changes the world…and leaves it a better place than it was before.” From all the phone calls, words, and emails I have received from family, friends, fellow Marines, servicemen, neighbors, acquaintances, and even people who barely knew him, it is obvious to me that Michael touched many lives. He was gentle and caring, and very passionate about what he believed in; country, liberty, freedom, and family. Whenever he was confronted with difficult choices, Mike always chose the morale route. His entire family feels tremendous pride at the man he turned into. However, we are also inconsolable at his loss.

Some one once said “No life passes without a purpose…”. I believe Mike’s purpose was to be a warrior and serve the country that he loved. Before he returned to Iraq, when I asked him “if you could have any job, what would you like to do?” Without hesitating, his answer was “I’m doing what I love and what I want to do”. “I wouldn’t change anything.”

As many of you know, during Michael’s first tour in Iraq, he was one of the Forward Air Controllers in Fallujah. In performing these duties, he was responsible for identifying enemy targets and passing this information on to fellow pilots. Needless to say, although many service men’s lives, as well as Iraqi lives, were saved by the resulting air strikes, there were many insurgents killed.

Like most soldiers, although Michael believed in what he was doing in Iraq, he was troubled having taken human life. He told me he had talked to the Chaplain in Iraq about these feelings. The Chaplain had discussed with Michael the reference to peacemakers in the Bible. Michael had become more religious after his experience in Iraq, and was currently reading a Student Bible I had given him just before he deployed for his second tour in Iraq. During this time while we were with him in San Diego, he asked my help in memorizing the words to the Lord’s Prayer as there were a couple of lines he would unintentionally omit. Like everything, he wanted to recite it accurately as he prayed.

This incident brought back memories of when Mike was about 12 years old. I had purchased a vase with the Lord’s Prayer on it at an antique store several years earlier and had placed it on my bedroom dresser. Years later when I was in Michael’s room, I noticed he had it in his bookcase. He obviously treasured it.

In the Sermon on the Mount at Mount Sinai, God gave guidance to his disciples on the obligations of every society for its sustainment. Among these obligations, God said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God”. I believe Michael was put on this earth to be a peacemaker. Although I wished he had chosen a safer career, I know he was doing what God wanted him to do.

I feel comforted in believing that he will be accepted into Heaven because of his sacrifice. I pray that I am worthy enough to meet him again in Heaven when my time comes.

65 Eulogy: Lauri Martino-Nelson (sister) – Nov. 14, 2005

As Michael’s sister, I would like to share a few of the fond memories I have. Michael was a cherished brother and friend as well as a loving uncle to my daughters. And that is how I choose to remember him

-- with a series of memories and stories

-- all the more precious to me now that he is gone.

As kids, we would fight and laugh but there was always a bond between us. There were times when we were young and I would have nightmares. I would wake Michael, and he would keep me company until I was able to fall asleep again. Even as a child he would watch over me.

We shared some secrets too. When Michael was in high school he took my parent’s prized Corvette without permission and drove it to school. I remember how frantic he was when our parents were due home from work, and he couldn’t get the car back into the garage. We searched all over for our brother, Bob, who had left his car parked in the driveway blocking the garage door. Bob showed up minutes before our parents arrived home ,and we were able to get the vette back into the garage. This was a secret my brothers and I never told my parents until yesterday.

I remember how Michael would play with my daughters, Devyn and Sydney. I was never certain who was having the most fun, even when Michael would tease them by hiding their toys. There was such adoration in my daughters’ eyes. Michael was always a hero to them.

In September I was able to visit with Michael before he left for Iraq. I will never forget saying goodbye, and how I didn’t want to let him go. It was the last time I saw him. Michael was my brother not by choice, but by the nature of our birth. I could not have chosen a better one. He will forever be in my heart.

Eulogy: Roy Howard (cousin) – Nov. 14, 2005

To the best of my recollection, the following are the words I spoke at Michaels Service…Roy

Throughout the years, my Aunt had the foresight to periodically send Michael to visit me and Kyong-Mi. For this we are forever grateful, and I have three specific instances I would like to share.

The first was when Michael was about 12 years old. He came to visit us on Cape Cod along with Lauri. This was Michael’s first meeting with Kyong-Mi. When she looked down and saw that great big smile and soft brown eyes she instantly fell in love with him. I’m sure he felt the same way for that was the day they bonded. I’m sure the Ramen noodles Kyong-Mi made him had something to do with it as well. Of course the first thing out his mouth was, “I’m going to be a pilot”.

66 Another visit came after Kyong-Mi and I had moved onto a lake in New Hampshire. Michael was about 17 and couldn’t wait for Kyong-Mi’s Ramen noodles. The task was to teach Michael to water ski barefoot. For those of you who aren’t familiar with this, it entails skiing at 40 plus miles per hour on your bare feet. To learn this requires much tenacity because the falls are painful…40 mph face first into the water hurts. Well Michael showed his determination that day. Time and time again he “kissed” that water. But finally, long after many had given up, he did it. He couldn’t have been prouder of himself and deservedly so.

Then recently (Jan’05), Kyong-Mi and I went out to California to visit some friends in LA. During this trip we made arrangements to visit Michael and meet him at his condo. Six of us crammed into our car and drove on down to Oceanside. When we got there, of course, he welcomed our friends with open arms. Then it was only seconds later that I was being shown the Corvette…a beautiful car of which he was very proud. We went to dinner and had a great time. During our drive back to LA, our friends commented that after only just meeting Michael, they felt as if they had known him for a very long time.

I just want to let everyone here know that I am, and always will be, very proud of my cousin. There is no shame in admitting he is a better man than me for he was a better man than many. A day won’t go by where I don’t think of him. His inspiration will live on forever. Thank you so much Sybil for letting us spend those precious times together, they will never be forgotten.

F. Arlington Cemetery Service and Burial – November 14, 2005

Michael is buried in Grave 8294, Section 60, at Arlington National Cemetery. There was a CD made of the ceremony which took place on 14 November 2005.

Figure 41 – Arlington National Cemetery – 14 Nov 2005

Figure 42 – Purple Heart Presentation to Family

Figure 43 – Flag Folding

Figure 44 – Flag Presentation to Family

Figure 45 – Marine Consoles Brother Robert 69

Figure 46 – 21 Gun Salute

Figure 47 - Cobra Flyover

Figure 48 – Michael’s Parent’s Final Goodbyes

70 G. USMC Memorial Service – Camp Pendleton – December 18, 2005

A memorial service was also held at Camp Pendleton, California, on December 18, 2003. Sgt Major Skiles*, who served with Michael during his first tour in Iraq, held back tears as he spoke about Capt. Martino, and how greatly he admired him. It was obvious to all those present that Michael was very much respected and loved by his fellow Marines. During his eulogy, Skiles reiterated how Michael would repeatedly ask to fire his sniper rifle while they were on the Fallujah rooftops, and Skiles would always have to reply, “I’m sorry sir, I can’t. You do more with your radio than I do with this rifle!”

NOTE: *Sgt Major Skiles was a USMC sniper and has since appeared in History Channel documentaries, portion of which covered their tour in Fallujah. If you have seen the movie Full Metal Jacket, Skiles would definitely remind you of Gunnery Sgt Hartman played by actor Lee Ermey.

Figure 49 – Marine Pilot’s Helmet and Boots

H. Michael’s Service Awards & Promotion to Major

At the time of his death Michael was a Captain, but was soon thereafter posthumously promoted to Major as paperwork had already been submitted prior to his death. In addition to a Purple Heart, Michael earned an Air Medal for Valor for heroic actions on previous missions during this second tour in Iraq.

Figure 50 – Major Michael Martino Service Awards

I. Message from Beyond - Psychic – November 2005

The following is an email that Michael’s father Robert received on February 19, 2006, from his nephew's wife Joyce who visited a psychic in Massachusetts about two weeks after Michael’s death…

-----Original Message----- From: Joyce Martino Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2006 8:14 PM To: Michael’s Father & Mother Subject:

Dear Robert & Sybil:

This is a very hard letter for me to write. But, it's something you'll find I was 'asked' to do, and I feel it is something that I 'have' to do. I realize that I could and probably should have sent it earlier, but it isn't something I found easy to do, and I hope you'll understand.

Just prior to Thanksgiving, before I left to join Joe in Tennessee for his drive home to Massachusetts, I made an appointment with someone that one of my sisters goes to. Her name is Amber and she is a Tarot Card reader that has psychic thoughts/feelings, I guess is how you would put it. My sisters and I have always been intrigued with astrology and tarot card reading. Our Great Grandmother used to read tealeaves and probably where our interest comes from.

As I sat down for the reading, the very first thing she said to me was, "Who was Michael?" My first thoughts were of my two brother-in-laws, she didn't agree. A moment later, she asked about Bob. She then informed me that Michael and Bob, Robert, Bobby were related and Michael had just recently passed.

It's amazing when you're sitting there and she's producing names, but as a person on the other side of the table you have "tunnel vision". You're not Bob to me, your Robert. Now I can relate to what she's going to tell me.

Michael had come through, and it was very important to him that you know he is okay. I don't know if you've felt his presence, Robert, but I was told that he has come to you, and it was very shortly after his passing.

Amber described it as a very soft feeling on your shoulder, and she felt confident that you'd understand the touch, knowing or sensing it was Michael. She continued to ask me who Joseph was. Well given the fact that there are a few in the Martino family... she continued and asked who Mary was, immediately telling me that Joseph and Mary were married…Grandma and Grandpa Martino.

Your parents were the ones to meet Michael as he entered the Gates of Heaven. It is important for you and Sybil to know that Michael was proud of what he did, knowing the risk, Michael was doing what he loved.

Prior to the reading ending, I was instructed probably three or four times to not forget to let you and Sybil know about Michael's coming through. I know that some people are very skeptical of things of this nature and find it hard for some to agree with. I only hope that I haven't upset you, and I had no intentions of such. But, I couldn't overlook the request. Nothing ever has to be said about this, but I know now that I completed the task that Michael asked of me.

If I've upset you, I greatly apologize, but if I've put a smile on both of your faces, I'm happy.

With warm regards & love, Joyce

J. Mt. Soledad Plaque Dedication Ceremony, La Jolla, CA – May 10, 2006

After returning from Iraq in May 2006, Michael’s Marine unit HMLA-369 dedicated plaques to Michael and his fellow pilot at Mt. Soledad in La Jolla, California. Over 300 fellow Marines and families attended the hour-long ceremony. After the ceremony, attendees stood in line for over three hours to meet Michael and Jerry’s families. The waiting line was so long it wrapped 73 around the memorial. Even after being told the buses that had brought them to Mt. Soledad had to leave and the Marines needed to board the buses immediately if they wanted a ride back to Camp Pendleton, the Marines remained in line. It was that important for them to express their condolences and share their stories with Mike and Jerry’s families. This was a very emotional experience for Mike’s family, one they will never forget. One Marine, SSgt Gary Shephard I believe, who had been serving under Michael told his mother that Michael was one of the nicest men he had ever known.

Figure 51 – Mount Soledad, La Jolla, CA – Flag at Half Mass

Figure 52 & 53 – Marines Wait in Line To Speak w/Families

Figure 54 – Michael (Top) and Jerry’s (Bottom) Plaques

NOTE: Ironically, the pictures displayed on each pilot’s plaque were taken of each other in Oct. 2005 in Iraq.

Figure 55 – Capt. Martino’s Plaque – he was posthumously promoted to Major

Figure 56 – Sgt Maj Skiles places Flight Wings at Camp Pendleton Hill Top Memorial for 1st Division Marines lost in combat.

Figure 57 – Camp Pendleton Air Frames Shop Bldg Dedicated to Capt. Martino

The plaque held by Marines from Michael’s Air Frames Shop depicts a spilled martini glass. Michael’s call sign was “Martini”

K. Arlington Cemetery, November 2, 2006 – Anniversary of His Death

The following was written and read by Michael’s Father

Lord, our son and brother was taken from us 2 years ago on this date. Not a day goes by that we do not miss his smile and those beautiful eyes. He was a wonderful son, brother and a good man.

He lived his life with honor and integrity and a devotion to his beliefs. That special joy that was Michael is now only the memories in our hearts and mind. Grant that we always keep them close to us.

77 For me, every day starts with the painful memory of his loss, today more than any other day. Sometimes I wonder how long I will be able to endure this feeling of loss that never ends.

Lord I pray that his sacrifice not be in vain and that this great evil that is bent on destroying us is vanquished, and there can be peace.

Lord grant that our son and brother Michael enjoy everlasting peace and tranquility in your kingdom

The following was written and read by Michael’s mother who tried to put into words what it’s like losing a child – “Losing a Child”

Someone once said that when a child dies, parents grieve harder and longer than with any other loss. I believe this to be true for I miss you terribly son. My pain and sorrow is as intense now as it was on 2 November 2005…always there just below the surface. Having a child die before his parents just seems to go against nature. It isn’t supposed to happen that way.

I believe a child is a gift from God for his parents to take care of, to love above all things, and not take for granted. As parents, your father and I hope we did what we needed to do to raise you, Bobby, and Lauri to be kind and decent adults…to understand the important things in life – family, friends and also to have strong moral and religious values. I think we’ve accomplished that. I thank God for we have been very blessed with extraordinary children and grandchildren.

Michael, in my eyes you are still my little boy, because a son, no matter his age, in the eyes of his mother, will always be her little boy. You are a part of me yet separate and independent from me with a mind of your own, but nevertheless a piece of me. With your death, a significant piece of me is gone and can never be replaced. Your death was the death of an unfulfilled life and a significant part of my own life thus a part of me died too.

With your loss, your father and I have also suffered the loss of the hopes, dreams, and expectations we had for you…the promise of things to come. We always wanted you to find a loving wife and have children of your own so you would know the incredible joy of being a parent that we have experienced. As our child, you represented our sense of ongoing life. It is a deep and painful hurt that goes beyond any words of description. Only someone who has lost a child can truly understand this.

Actually, I think the older a child is the more painful his death is to his family. As your parent, I looked at you and saw in you an image of your father and me. You were some one we could talk to, share opinions with and do things together with. Now all the potentials you showed us as you grew and matured are gone. Gone are all the things we as a family could have done together. Gone are the things you could have done, and the achievements you could have made for us but most of all for yourself. Why did God have to take you from us? You were such an incredible and unique person 78 with a smile that could light up a room.

Words cannot adequately or sufficiently describe the meaning and value of your short life. You found your own direction, focused on your dream, and accomplished more meaningful things in your short life than most. The family continues to get correspondence from friends and other people whose lives you’ve touched. How lucky you were to have been so loved and respected. Maybe God took you because you already touched more hearts than most of us could touch in a lifetime.

My son, you have gone home now, but your family’s memories of you will forever remain vivid in our minds and forever warm our hearts. We are all extremely proud of you and what you accomplished in your short life. The pain we have experienced in losing you was worth every moment to have the honor of having you as our son/brother. We pray that we will join you in Heaven some day as we are sure that is where you are. Without that faith, I know I could not face another day.

L. Michael Awarded Bronze Star (Combat V) – 1st Tour In Iraq 2004 - one of the highest Honors for Heroism

Figure 58 – Michael’s Bronze Star (with Combat “V”)

Figure 59 – Bronze Star Commendation Letter 80

M. Navy Marine Commendation Medal w/V for Valor – 1st Tour – Apr-May 2004

Rank:

CAPT

Name: MARTINO, MICHAEL D

Recommended Award: CV

Action Period: 20040406-20040504

Status: Completed

Last Updated By: Mit Admin on 06/16/2005 04:04:07 PM

Last Forwarded To: HQMC Military Awards Branch on 06/14/2005

Final Approved Award: CV

Date Approved: 06/14/2005 12:48:45 PM

Approved By: Richard Natonski, MajGen, CG, 1st Marine Division

Summary Action: Service member receiving IDP. Combat distinguishing device is authorized.

In support of Operation Vigilant Resolve, Captain Martino was attached to Company E, 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines, on the 4th of April 2004. After spending 1 night in a defensive position in the vicinity of Regimental Combat Team 1's blocking position 2, Captain Martino and Echo Company conducted a night attack into the city of Fallujah, Iraq on 06 April 2004. After taking sporadic rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) and small arms fire, he and his company attacked and seized six buildings before establishing defensive positions for the night. During the transition from offense to defense, Company E become engaged by two groups of twenty armed insurgents 250 meters away from their position.

Captain Martino calmly and quickly coordinated precision close air support (CAS) from an AC- 130 Spectre gunship circling overhead. Despite enemy fire he identified and de-conflicted the locations of friendly forces before delivering devastating fires from the gunship, killing over thirty armed insurgents with 20mm and 40mm cannon fire. On two occasions he used the aircraft's 105mm howitzer fire within danger close range.

On the morning of 7 April 2004, he and Company E attacked west across the north end of Fallujah, taking sporadic enemy RPG and small arms fire from insurgents, two of which the 81 Company's Fire Support Team suppressed with small arms. By afternoon, Captain Martino and Company E tied in by fire with a platoon from Company F, 2nd Bn, 1st Marines. Almost immediately, the enemy launched multiple desperate counterattacks in an effort to dislodge the Marine foothold established in the northwest corner of Fallujah. Captain Martino immediately coordinated close air support in the urban environment.

In the evening, enemy forces attacked Captain Martino and his Marines with RPG and small arms fire from a distance of only 150 meters. As enemy bullets cracked by inches from his head while RPGs impacted meters away from his location, he de-conflicted the battlefield geometry of friendly M1A1 tank surface danger zones and three platoons of infantry, and then called in effective close air support on the enemy, violently disrupting the insurgent attack. The battlespace was so confined in the urban terrain that on one occasion 20mm shell casings from USMC AH-1 Cobra attack helicopters flying overhead dropped on the rooftop he and his Marines occupied.

On the night of 7 April, he again coordinated AC-130 gunship support and killed 18 armed insurgents 400 meters from his company's position. From 8 April to 10 April, Captain Martino's position repeatedly came under heavy enemy fire. During this period the enemy conducted coordinated mortar, RPG, and small arms attacks at least twice a day, in addition to continuous harassing fire. Captain Martino would repeatedly move to a rooftop and call in fixed wing and rotary wing CAS on the enemy, smashing them and halting their attacks. Each night, he coordinated AC-130 air strikes, accounting for an additional 20 enemy killed.

As his company attacked east and expanded the Battalion's frontage, Captain Martino skillfully orchestrated powerful air strikes on suspected arms caches, resulting in massive secondary explosions on two occasions. Captain Martino was a constant source of motivation for the men of Echo 2/1. Whenever he was seen with his UHF PRC-113 radio, friendly munitions would soon rain down on insurgent positions, reducing enemy resistance and raising the Marines' morale to an even higher level.

For the next nine days, Captain Martino dutifully coordinated air strikes against enemy positions. When the rules of engagement restricted his use of AC-130 Spectre gunship support, he used the gunship's sensors to locate enemy staging areas and arms caches. Later, when Marine forces were permitted to re-engage the enemy, Captain Martino utilized the information he gathered from his earlier aerial reconnaissance to successfully prosecute insurgent positions.

When his company patrolled into the security area forward of his defensive positions, he controlled rotary wing CAS in support of the infantry movements, ensuring an effective airborne over-watch was maintained. On 21 April 2004, he coordinated two TOW and two Hellfire missile strikes on enemy positions, as well as multiple 2.75" rocket and 20mm gun runs in order to cover one of his platoons as it returned to friendly lines under enemy fire. His skillful application of CAS allowed the Marines in his company to evacuate LCpl Gonzales after he was shot in the neck, and then continue in their fight against enemy forces for over an hour until ordered to return to friendly lines.

Captain Martino accompanied a platoon-sized patrol into Fallujah on 26 April 2004 when a numerically superior force attacked from multiple directions with RPGs, grenades, machine

82 gun, and small arms fire. As the patrol returned to friendly lines under intense fire, he coordinated air strikes on the growing number of enemy in a fight that lasted over 9 hours. Throughout the entire time, he was under intense enemy small arms, mortar, and RPG fire. The brave execution of his duties halted the enemy counterattack.

In all, during combat operations from 6 April 2004 to 6 May 2004, Captain Martino conducted 63 terminal controls where nine GBU-12 500lb laser guided bombs were dropped, nine Hellfire and eight TOW missiles were fired, three fixed wing gun runs, twenty-three Cobra rocket and gun attacks, and eleven AC-130 runs were made upon the enemy. Captain Martino's terminal controls saved Marine lives and accounted for over 70 confirmed enemy killed in action and countless more enemy killed and wounded. It is with the highest degree of enthusiasm that I recommend Captain Martino's battlefield valor and professional expertise be rewarded with the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with the combat distinguishing device.

Recommended Citation: HEROIC ACHIEVEMENT WHILE SERVING AS FORWARD AIR CONTROLLER, 2D BATTALION, 1ST MARINES, REGIMENTAL COMBAT TEAM 1, 1ST MARINE DIVISION IN SUPPORT OF OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM II FROM 6 APRIL TO 4 MAY 2004. DURING A NIGHT ATTACK INTO THE CITY OF FALLUJAH, IRAQ, CAPTAIN MARTINO DELIVERED DEVASTATING FIRES AGAINST TWO GROUPS OF 20 ARMED INSURGENTS ATTACKING HIS POSITION FROM A DISTANCE OF 250 METERS. DESPITE RECEIVING EFFECTIVE ENEMY FIRE, CAPTAIN MARTINO CONTINUED TO COORDINATE CLOSE AIR SUPPORT FROM AN AC-130 GUNSHIP CIRCLING OVERHEAD, RESULTING IN 30 ARMED INSURGENTS KILLED. FOR OVER FOUR WEEKS, WHILE UNDER INTENSE ENEMY SMALL ARMS AND ROCKET-PROPELLED GRENADE FIRE, HE BRAVELY CALLED IN CLOSE AIR SUPPORT IN AN URBAN BATTLESPACE SO CONFINED THAT ON ONE OCCASION 20MM SHELL CASINGS FROM COBRA ATTACK HELICOPTERS FELL ON THE ROOFTOP THAT HE OCCUPIED. HE ALSO CONDUCTED 63 TERMINAL CONTROLS, ACCOUNTING FOR MORE THAN 70 CONFIRMED ENEMY PERSONNEL KILLED. CAPTAIN MARTINO'S INITIATIVE, PERSEVERANCE, AND TOTAL DEDICATION TO DUTY REFLECTED CREDIT UPON HIM AND WERE IN KEEPING WITH THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE.

N. Air Medal Commendation with V for Valor – 2nd Tour Iraq – 16 Oct 2005

Rank: CAPT

Name: MARTINO, MICHAEL D

Recommended Award: AH

Action Period: 20051016-20051016

Status: Completed

Last Updated By: Mit Admin on 11/21/2005 04:08:45 PM

83 Last Forwarded To: HQMC Military Awards Branch on 11/18/2005

Final Approved Award: AH

Date Approved: 11/18/2005 07:22:55 PM

Approved By: J F Sattler, LtGen, CG, MARCENT

Summary Action: Captain Michael D. Martino is enthusiastically recommended for the Air Medal (with Combat Distinguishing Device) posthumously for heroic achievement as an Attack Helicopter Pilot while attached to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369 (HML/A-369), Marine Aircraft Group 26 (MAG-26) (-) (Reinforced), 2d Marine Aircraft Wing Forward (2D MAW FWD), II Marine Expeditionary Force Forward (II MEF FWD) during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM 04-06.2 for actions on 16 October 2005.

Service member is receiving imminent danger pay.

On 16 October, 2005, Captain Martino was co-pilot of an AH-1W, which was dash two in a mixed section of one UH-1N and one AH-1W, callsign Gunshot 71/72. At 0900, his section was called out from strip alert at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Al Qaim to launch in support of a troops in contact (TIC) from 3rd Battalion, 6th Marines (3/6).

Upon checking in with "Zero," the Forward Air Controller (FAC) for 3/6, Gunshot 71/72 were passed the following situation: friendly forces on the East side of the Emerald Wadi were receiving effective small arms and rocket propelled grenade (RPG) fire from four to five enemy positions located on the west side of the Wadi (approximately 200-300 meters away). Friendly forces were returning suppressive fires, but the volume and intensity of the enemy fire continued.

The decision was made to utilize standoff and engage the suspected enemy locations with precision guided munitions (PGMs) from Captain Martino's Cobra. Despite the chaotic and stressful situation, Captain Martino was instrumental in analyzing the friendly and enemy situation. He briefed the Section Leader (Gunshot 71) that two of the targets could be safely engaged with AGM-114 HELLFIRE (HF) missiles but that the other targets were too close to friendlies for PGM engagements because of surface danger zones (SDZ) and weaponeering geometry.

Due to his high situational awareness and tactical knowledge of PGM engagements, Gunshot 72 (Captain Martino's aircraft) assumed Tactical Lead (TAC Lead) of the section for the HELLFIRE engagements. After receiving a modified 9-line Close Air Support (CAS) brief from "Zero," Captain Martino took control of the communication with the FAC and directed the pilot in command to move to a position that assured successful prosecution of the targets while minimizing any potential fratricide. He demonstrated absolute professionalism through out the engagement. Drawing on his training and experience as a FAC in previous combat operations, Captain Martino ran the CAS mission like any other training mission. He understood that published procedures need to be followed to the maximum extent possible and that cutting corners would lead to mission failure and the possibility of putting Marines at risk. Captain

84 Martino utilized Joint Close Air Support (JCAS) terminology and standard tactics because of the close proximity of the engaged forces.

His presence of mind and knowledge of Forward Air Controlling proved crucial in the successful engagements. Once his flight was in position and positive, standard two-way communication was established with "Zero." Captain Martino then adroitly manipulated his sensors and positively identified the targets. His mastery of the sensors and communications resulted in the FAC quickly clearing him hot on the furthest of the targets. Captain Martino successfully engaged two of the enemy occupied buildings with HF missiles. As a result, both missiles were direct hits and enemy fire ceased from both positions.

Following the engagement on the deep targets, Captain Martino's aircraft assumed position as dash two in the flight. On the previous engagements, "Zero" reported that Gunshot 71/72 were receiving fire from enemy forces. The closer targets could only be engaged with rockets and guns (SDZ considerations), requiring that the helicopters move even closer to the enemy. Although realizing that a rocket and gun attack would put the flight in the heart of the enemy's "kill zone," Captain Martino willingly accepted the risk in order to support Marines on the ground who were under fire.

On the first rocket and gun attack, both aircraft received a large volume of fire; however, they successfully engaged the target with good effects (confirmed by "Zero"). During the engagement, Captain Martino's 20mm cannon suffered a mechanical stoppage. After resetting for a second attack, the pilot in command tried to reset the cannon, but it remained jammed. Knowing that his primary quick response defensive weapon was broken, Captain Martino again demonstrated valor by continuing the mission despite the substantial risk. Captain Martino scanned the area for enemy fire and talked the pilot in command on to the source of the fire during the second run. With only 2.75-inch rockets, Captain Martino identified that lead was receiving a large volume of fire. His "talk on" to the rear-seat pilot resulted in suppression of the enemy position with rockets while drawing enemy fire onto himself. The UH-1N suffered some battle damage, but the outcome could have been worse had Captain Martino's aircraft not suppressed the enemy.

As a result of the violent engagement, the enemy's RPG and small arms fire was substantially reduced. After Gunshot 71/72 checked off station, 3/6 reported a battle damage assessment (BDA) of two enemy observation positions destroyed, two neutralized, and numerous enemy killed in action. No friendly forces were wounded. Throughout the whole evolution, Captain Martino demonstrated grace under fire, tactical acumen, and valor in the face of the enemy. By his superb airmanship, perseverance, and loyal devotion to duty in the face of hazardous flying conditions, Captain Martino reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

The Combat Distinguishing Device is authorized.

85 6th Marines who were receiving significant enemy small arms and rocket propelled grenade fire near the town of Sadah, Iraq. Upon check-in with the forward air controller, he helped develop a plan that ensured mission success, assisted by his previous combat experience as a forward air controller. Adroitly managing the sensors, weapons, and communications, he efficiently identified and executed two successful hellfire missile engagements on enemy positions. During a subsequent rocket and gun attack, the flight received a high volume of fire from enemy positions. Despite the 20mm cannon jamming and no immediate suppressive fires, he displayed valor and dogged determination by staying on the sensors to direct his rear seat pilot onto the source of the enemy fires. His actions resulted in the delivery of effective rocket fires, which drew fire upon himself and allowed the lead aircraft to safely pull off target. As a result of his decisive action, two enemy positions were destroyed, numerous enemies were eliminated, and no friendly forces were injured. By his skillful airmanship, steadfast aggressiveness, and exemplary devotion to duty in the face of hazardous flying conditions, Captain Martino gallantly gave his life for his country and reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

O. Summary of Mission on 16 Oct 2005 for Air Medal – 2nd Tour – 16 Oct 2005

Summary of mission on 16 Oct 2005 Captain Powers/1stLt Lake/Major Bloomfield/Capt Martino

Captain Weinert/Maj Moorman

Gunshot 71/72 launched on TIC at 0900. 3/6 was heavily engaged IVO the Emerald Wadi. “Reaper” (a 4 Marine sniper team) was compromised 500m forward of friendly lines. Two MBTs and one LAV were tasked with extracting the team. Gunshot 73 was launched by the Air Boss (after BC) approval at 0945 to begin “daisy chain” due to strength of enemy engagement. 4-5 identified enemy positions were delivering effective small arms and RPG fire onto friendly positions, and preventing the successful extract of “Reaper”. GCE was returning fire with LAV 25mm, small arms and tank main gun. FAC was “Zero”. All runs were type I control. Gunshot 71 fired 7 HE rockets, 400 rds .50 cal, 700 rds 7.62. Gunshot 72 fired 2 Hellfire (1 M and 1 N), 14 HE rockets, 4 rds of 20mm (jam). All ordnance was on target. Pre- emptive flares expended. Large amounts of SAFIRE observed. All SAFIRE appeared to all be small arms. Numerous enemy KIA reported by “Zero” and observed by Gunshot. While conducting an attack run SAF impacted lead a/c pilot side wirecutter guide resulting in a cracked windshield. On a subsequent maintenance inspection, a bullet hole was also discovered in the tail rotor. The attack in question was in support of “Zero” who was taking continuous sniper and SAF fire from a fortified position on the west side of the Emerald Wadi while coordinating the extract when flight checked on station. Reaper was 250m from the target building from which the majority of the fire originated. Because of proximity of friendlies TOW or Hellfire could not be used due to SDZ and min range considerations. FAC wanted rockets and guns and wouldn’t clear the flight hot well behind the FLOT for fear of a rocket dropping short. Gunshot 72 was unable to use 20mm due to a jam, but engaged two buildings with HF and used rkts on subsequent runs. 71 used a steep diving profile (roll-in at 1500’ off at 300’) to guarantee good effects in close proximity to friendlies. Zero reported that all fires ceased for 5 hours after the rotary wing attacks. He took no further fire from the vicinity of target building. Type 1 control was used with a cleared hot 1500m from target. Mark was LAV/tank main-gun on the side of the building.

Capt Edward “Peanut” Powers

To Whom it may Concern,

On 16 Oct 2005, a mixed section of HMLA-369 helicopters departed FOB Al Qaim in support of "Zero" and his team, who were taking fire from the western side of the Emarald Wadi in the vicinity of Karabilah and Sadah. Myself and Capt Powers were piloting the UH-1N and the pilots of the AH-1W were Maj Bloomfield and Capt Martino.

While on scene, the Cobra team assumed tac-lead and employed their weapon system to neutralize several enemy positions. The cobra team then assumed a position to cover the UH- 1N as they rolled in to neutralize the final enemy position. Unable to deploy the AH-1W cannon to suppress fire for the Huey crew, Maj Bloomfield and Capt Martino positioned their aircraft in a position to draw enemy fire from the attacking UH-1N, resulting in the Huey's crew successful neutralization of the final enemy position.

1stLt Kavan O. Lake USMC

P. Air Medal Strike Award – 2nd Tour Iraq – 30 Sep-2 Nov 2005

Rank: CAPT

Name: MARTINO, MICHAEL D

Recommended Award: AS

Action Period: 20050930-20051102

Status: Completed

Last Updated By: Mit Admin on 11/14/2005 04:00:50 PM

Last Forwarded To: HQMC Military Awards Branch on 11/12/2005

Final Approved Award: AS

Date Approved: 11/12/2005 12:02:00 PM

Approved By: Robert E Milstead, BGen, Commanding General, 2d MAW (Fwd)

Summary Action: Captain Michael D. Martino is enthusiastically recommended for the Air Medal (Strike/Flight) posthumously for meritorious achievement as an AH-1W pilot while serving with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369, Marine Aircraft Group 26 (-) (Reinforced), 2d Marine Aircraft Wing Forward from 30 September 2005 to 2 November 2005.

87 Captain Martino has accrued a total of 1 Strike/Flight award flying on-call close air support, CASEVAC and convoy escort missions in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM 04-06 during this period.

-SNM flew 3.0 Strike missions for 6 points. -SNM flew 3.0 Flight missions for 3 points. -SNM flew 36.2 hours of Direct Combat Support Missions for 14.48 points. -SNM flew 42.2 combat hours in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM 04-06. -SNM tabulated air medal points total 23.48. -Bronze numeral "1" is authorized. -3.48 points are carried forward.

Captain Martino's skill, courage and devotion to duty in the face of hazardous flying conditions make him most deserving of the recognition afforded by the presentation of the Air Medal (First Strike/Flight Award). Recommended Citation: The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the AIR MEDAL (First Strike/Flight Award) posthumosly to For meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight as a pilot of an AH-1W while attached to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369, Marine Aircraft Group 26(-) (Reinforced), 2d Marine Aircraft Wing Forward in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM 04-06 from 30 September 2005 to 2 November 2005. In the successful completion of 42.2 combat hours over Iraq, Captain Martino contributed materially to the security of Marines and soldiers, greatly enhanced their ability to detect, close with, detain and destroy anti-Iraqi forces, and helped further the success of national objectives in the Global War on Terrorism. Throughout this period, his mission focus, dedication and flying abilities helped to ensure victory in the skies and on the ground. By his superb airmanship, perseverance, and loyal devotion to duty in the face of hazardous flying conditions, Captain Martino reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

The Numeral "1" to represent One Strike/Flight Award is authorized.

Q. Some of the Many Tributes to Michael Martino

 March 2006 – Michael posthumously promoted to Major

 Gunshot 66 WWNF Bumper Stickers. Gunshot 66 was the mission Capt. Martino was on when he was killed.

Figure 60 – Gunshot 66 Bumper Stickers

88  Mar 2007 - Marine Aircraft Group 39 dedicates Memorial in honor of the fallen GT66 aircrew at Camp Pendleton, CA

Figure 61 – Marine Aircraft Group 39 Memorial, Camp Pendleton, CA

 Apr 2007 – Michael featured in Newsweek “Voices of the Fallen” Magazine

 May 2007 – Michael’s picture and name added to Wall of Honor in Richmond, VA

 May 2007 - Plaque added to the Wall of Recognition, in Irvine, CA, where Michael attended elementary and high school

Figure 62 & 63 – Wall of Recognition Memorial, Irvine, CA

89  Jun 2007 - Engraved brick dedicated at USMC Nat’l Museum in Quantico, VA (donated by Michael’s friends)

 Sep 2007- Isuzu Trooper donated to the Challenged Athletes Foundation, Operation Rebound, by former classmate John Rozelle in memory of Michael.

Figure 64 & 65 - Operation Rebound-Challenged Athletes Foundation Isuzu Trooper

 Sep 2007 - Michael’s memorial logo is displayed on the Isuzu Trooper

 Sep 2007 – Thomas More Law Center asks Michael’s parents to be “friends of the court” with regards to the Supreme Court Case brought by the ACLU in their attempts to remove the cross at Mt. Soledad. The Law Center has been active in trying to prevent the ACLU from having the cross removed from Mt. Soledad

 Oct 2007 - Michael’s picture added as part of the Certificate Northrop Grumman’s ISO’s “Hats Off To Heroes” Certificate…Michael’s brother and parents worked for Northrop Grumman

Figure 66 – Northrop Grumman’s ISO’s “Hats Off to Heroes” Certificate

 Oct 2007 - President Bush sends letter to Mike’s mom and a Presidential Coin

 Nov 2, 2007 – Artist Patsy Arrington Dorsett completes commissioned portrait

Figure 67 – Portrait of Maj Michael Martino hangs over parent’s mantel

 2008 – Featured on Operation Never Forgotten - Gold Star Family Billboard & Website. http://www.operationneverforgotten.org/bbgallery.php?pgindex=3&category=fallen

Figure 68 – Uncle Mike and Devyn Martino – Operation Never Forgotten Billboard Picture

Figure 69 – Gold Star Family Website – Uncle Mike & Sydney Martino

 Apr 2008 - Plaque presented to Michael’s family at the Iraq Liberation Day Ceremony

 May 2008 – Sgt Maj Rick Caisse (Family’s CACO) Flies American Flag Over Fallujah and Ar Ramadi, Iraq, in Memory of Michael – flag later mailed to parents

 2009 - Book entitled “Iraq In Transition – The Legacy of Dictatorship and the Prospects For Democracy” written by friend Peter J. Munson and dedicated to Michael

 Aug 2009 - Honor and Remember Project presents flag to Michael’s family. http://www.honorandremember.org/

 Sep 2009 - Lost Heroes Art Quilt Dedicated… Michael represents the state of Virginia on the quilt which is 5’ high and 15’ long. This quilt continues to be exhibited all around the country. http://www.heart2hand4art.com/lostheroesartquilt/

Figure 70 – Lost Heroes Art Quilt – Michael Represents Virginia

 Sep 2009 – Publication of Lost Heroes Art Quilt companion book by Julie Feingold with in-depth stories of various Heroes written by their mothers…Michael representing the State of Virginia

 Nellysford, VA Portion of Rt. 151 Named “Maj Michael Martino, USMC Memorial Highway

Figure 71 – Maj Michael Martino USMC Memorial Highway

93  May 27, 2010 – Warrior Night, MCAS New River, North Carolina – Honors HMLA-369 Fallen Aircrew of Gunshot 66 – Col. Weidley residing

Figure 72 – Photo Presentation by Col. Weidley

 December 2012 – Gunfighter Cobra Helicopter Dedicated to Gunshot 66 Pilots (Capt. Martino & Major Bloomfield) at Camp Pendleton, California

Figure 73 – Gunfighter Cobra Helicopter Dedication

 2009 - Present – In memory of Michael, his mother has organized sending packages to the military serving on active duty in Iraq and Afghanistan. During the period Oct 2009- Oct 2013, her volunteers had sent packages to over 1700 Soldiers and Marines…with a very conservative estimate of over 3000 packages sent.

For more information on Major Michael Martino, please visit his website at: http://www.arlington.somloi.com/index.html 94