Every Memorial Day, I honor a different local hero who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. This year, I’m proud to honor U.S. Army soldier Michael J. Martinez — a fellow Chula Vistan, San Diego Sports fan, and true American hero. Because of brave men and women like Michael, we’re able to enjoy Padres games and the freedom that comes with living in this great country. His legacy lives on with a street named after him in Chula Vista and the baseball field at Eastlake High School bearing his name. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, especially his son Landon, who honored his father by throwing out the first pitch at a Padres game on Memorial Day 2018. We remember. We honor. We are forever grateful. 🎥: Clips pulled from Kristina Perez (San Diego Fleet Tribute Video) and Padres Honor Gold Star Families — sourced from YT. #memorialday #honorthefallen #honorourheroes #honorourfallen #usarmysoldier