Jospeh P. Martinez earned the Medal of Honor posthumously for his leadership in the Aleutian Islands, the only continental US territory seized by the Japanese in World War II. When his regiment was pinned down near Fish Hook Ridge, Martinez led two assaults that broke through the Japanese defenses. He was shot in the head when attacking the second Japanese position and died of his wounds the following day.

Martinez posthumously received the Medal of Honor. From Colorado, he is buried at Ault Cemetery and three statues of Martinez stand in the state. Honor Joe P Martinez and remember his leadership.