A Promise Made, A Promise Kept

United States Marine Corps

Remembrance of the 80th Anniversary

Battle of Tarawa

In Honor of Corporal Lazaro "Lester" Martinez

 

Fallen: November 22, 1943

Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll

On November 19, 2023, a remembrance of Corporal Lazaro "Lester" Martinez was held in Merced, CA. This event honored Max Brown's promise to locate and contact Martinez's family in gratitude for saving his life on the battlefield and to ensure that Martinez was not forgotten for his heroic actions.

This event had a profound impact on both the Brown and Martinez families and stood as a true testament to a promise made and a promise kept. The program included a video presentation on the Battle of Tarawa, the Amphibious Assault, the posting of the national ensign by the Armored Forces Honor Guard, and the All-Marine Color Guard led by Ray Castillo, GYSGT USMC (RET).

The ceremony continued with an invocation by Chaplain Will Wohltom and featured special guest speakers: Mr. Scott Brown, son of L/CPL Brown, Christian Santos from Congressman Duarte's office, Mrs. Diana Westmoreland from Senator Anna Caballero's office, and former Mayor of Los Banos, Tom Faria. Although members of the Board of Supervisors were invited, none attended. 

Special thanks were extended to Mr. John Cox from the Merced County Veterans Services Office, Ray Villegas, and Jose Comacho Sr. of Marine Central Valley Veterans.

Following these addresses, a presentation of certificates was conducted, accompanied by a memorial walk-through in honor of Martinez. The event concluded with a lunch, expressing heartfelt thanks to all who attended.