Martinez is Firefighter of the Year for 2007
By BENJAMIN C. SHARP bensharp@journal-spectator.com

MARTINEZ

Leonard Martinez has been a Wharton firfi.ghter for just three years. In that brief span, he's distinguished himself as a dedicated, responsible volunteer who is always available to answer the call of duty.

"His dedication and dependability are his two biggest traits," Wharton Fire Chief Bobby Barnett said. "You ask him and he'll be there."

Such devotion has not escaped the attention of Martinez's peers. Last month, he was named Firefighter of the Year for 2007.

A committee - comprised of former firfi.ghters of the year - recommended Martinez and two other candidates to the department's voting body.

Candidates were chosen based on training, attendance at meetings and

fire calls, participation at department functions and several other factors.

Martinez was announced as the winner at the department's Christmas party.

"It's not just a popularity contest. You have to be pretty active, which Leonard is. He's well respected," Barnett said.

One thing Martinez is particularly noted for is his skill as a cook. He puts that ability to work in annual fundraisers and in events where the department volunteers handle cooking duties for other civic groups.

Martinez, 44, and his wife, Frances, have one daughter, Nicole. Frances is active in the department also, serving as president of the Ladies Auxiliary.

In addition to being named Firefighter of the Year, Martinez was also elected president of the department for 2008. Other officers for this year assistant fire chiefs Scott Stewart and Paul Shannon; captains Arthur Araguz, Frank Garza, Johnny Cano and Hector Hernandez; vice president Jim Thompson; and secretary/treasurer Paul Shannon.