The US Postal Service building in Huron, SD, was officially renamed in honor of First Lieutenant Thomas M. Martin, Class of 2005, in a moving ceremony attended by local leaders, community members, and his family.
The renaming follows the passage of federal legislation recognizing Martin’s service and sacrifice.
Born in Huron, Martin began a journey of selfless service by enlisting in the U.S. Army in 1998. He later earned admission to West Point and ultimately to a leadership role on the battlefield. As a cadet, he was a member of the Rugby Team and the Military Tactics Team, and he earned his Parachutist Badge at Airborne School. Following graduation, he completed Armor Officer Basic and Ranger School, later deploying to Iraq with the 1st Squadron, 40th Cavalry Regiment, based out of Fort Richardson, Alaska.
On October 14, 2007, 1LT Martin was killed during combat operations in Iraq. His leadership, courage, and character continue to inspire those who knew him and those who learn his story.
“A person dies twice. The first time their last breath is taken and the second time their name is spoken for the last time,” said Ed Martin, 1LT Martin’s father. “It’s comforting to know that our Tom’s name will often be spoken in the city he first called home. He will never be forgotten.”
WPAOG joins the Martin family and the Huron community in honoring 1LT Martin’s life of service, leadership, and sacrifice — a lasting example of the values embodied in the West Point motto: Duty, Honor, Country.
Photos: – Thomas Martin ’05 cadet photo from https://tommartinfoundation.org.
An excerpt was taken from https://drgnews.com
