Ryan Martens (right)

photo taken at Incirlik AB, Turkey


Ryan D. Martens is the son of James & JoAnn Martens of Manning, Iowa.

Ryan was inducted into the Air Force on May 28, 1997. He attended basic military training at Lackland AFB, TX and graduated in July 1997. Then he attended Technical training for the Medical Logistics Career field at Sheppard AFB, TX, graduating in September 1997. Ryan was assigned to the 55 Medical Support Squadron at Offutt AFB, NE from September 1997 to May 1999. While assigned to the MDSS he performed Security Force duty for the 55 SFS, working as security for the E4-B and RC 135 Aircraft.

In May 1999 he was transferred to the 39th Medical Support Squadron in support of Operation Northern Watch at Incirlik AB, Turkey where he performed security for the F-15 and F-16 aircraft. He also performed medical logistical duties at one of only two bomb blast protected hospitals in the world.

In August of 2000, Ryan was transferred to the 99th Medical Support Squadron at Nellis, AFB, NV where he helped with the transfer of over $50,000 worth of equipment and supplies in support of the relief effort in New York City after the 9/11 twin tower disaster. Then in September 2001 he was transferred to Iowa Air National Guard in Des Moines for one year before re-enlisting to Active Duty in September 2002 and stationed at Scott AFB, IL. There he managed over $300,000 worth of medical equipment for the 375th Medical Support Squadron.

In September of 2003 he was transferred to Kunsan AB, South Korea for one year. He was assigned to the 8th Medical Support Squadron where he helped manage 15 War Reserve Material Projects used for defense of South Korea.

In September 2004 he was transferred to Offutt AFB, NE, working as a Non-Commissioned Officer in charge of Medical War Reserve material for the 55th Medical Support Squadron. As of 2005, Ryan holds the rank of Staff Sergeant and has received the following medals: Air Force Achievement (4 times), Korean Defense, Good Conduct, National Defense and Global War on Terror Medals.
As of May 2005, Ryan has served his country for eight years.