CAPT Mike Martinez is a native of Kansas. He graduated from Texas A&M University with a Bachelor of Science and was commissioned through the Naval ROTC program in 1998. He also attended the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island where he earned a master’s in national security and strategic studies.
 
Designated a Naval Flight Officer (NFO) in July of 1999 and following P-3C training, he began his first flying tour with the Skinny Dragons of Patrol Squadron (VP) 4. Subsequent operational tours include the Fuels Division and Catapult and Arresting Gear Officer on USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) and a department head tour in VP-4. Upon completion of P-8A training, he commanded VP-16.
 
His shore and staff assignments include instructor NFO at VP-30, Carrier Strike Group and Carrier Placement Officer, Major Staff Placement Officer and Washington DC Placement Branch Head at Naval Personnel Command, special assistant for legislative matters to the Chief of Naval Personnel, and selection as a Navy Federal Executive Fellow.
 
Martinez is authorized to wear the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal (two awards), Air Medal (Strike/Flight), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (three awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (three awards) and various campaign, service and unit awards.