Francis J. Martin

United States air force 1944-1967

Chief Master Sergeant

airforce commendation medal (3)

National defense service medal

World War II victory medal

CMSgt. Francis J. Martin served in the US Air Force, overseas, in Japan and Morocco and in the United States on Air Force Bases in Illinois, Wyoming, Texas, Alaska and South Dakota. In his 23-year career he was recognized three times for outstanding achievement with the Air Force Commendation Medal. Among the medals he was awarded while serving in multiple eras, were the Korean, UN, and National Defense Service Medals and the WWII Victory Medal.

In 1964 while stationed in Alaska at Elmendorf Air Force Base, Anchorage was struck by a powerful 9.2 magnitude earthquake. The quake lasted more than three minutes which left the base without power and communications and with heavy structural damage. After the most intense shaking subsided, CMSgt Martin and his team returned to the communications building. Finding equipment scattered and jammed against the mainframe computer, they evaluated the electrical and structural safety of the building. Once secure, they proceeded with the painstaking process of up righting, reconnecting and testing essential devices. In less than an hour, they reestablished a link to the outside world, created a base command post, and enabled commanders to notify Washington, DC of the devastation on the base.

After his military service, Martin returned to his hometown of Enfield. His interest in finance and banking drove the remainder of his professional career. As Loan Officer, Branch Manager and Regional Manager at Connecticut Bank & Trust, he fostered partnerships with local businesses helping stimulate community economic growth.

Beyond his professional career, Martin was highly active within the Enfield community. He used his expertise and leadership to help a variety of organizations, holding numerous positions. He volunteered as a board member to the Enfield Public Library, Enfield Cemetery Commission, Allied Community Services and Johnson Memorial Hospital. Additionally, he continued to support veterans as a member of the John Maciolek American Legion Post 154 and the Air Force Sergeants Association.

During his leisure time, Martin was passionate about golf. Throughout his life, he achieved an impressive seven holes in one. The sport was a way for him to connect with others and build lasting relationships, making it an important part of his successful career and retirement.