Starla Pointer/News-Register##Carlton Police Chief Kevin Martinez and his wife, Christy, attended the state American Legion convention. He was named the Legion’s Western Region Law Enforcement Officer of the Year.

Officer honored at Legion convention

American Legion members honored Carlton Police Chief Kevin Martinez at the Legion’s 97th annual state convention, held Wednesday through Saturday in McMinnville.

Martinez, who earlier was named law enforcement officer of the year by Carlton Memorial Post 173, was honored as the Oregon Legion’s officer of the year, as well. In addition, he was recognized as Western Region Law Enforcement Officer of the Year.

The regional award, signed by National Commander Mike Helm, notes Martinez’s “outstanding helpful service over and above the call of duty.” It also notes that his service “exemplifies the phrase ‘America’s finest.’”

Martinez started his career in Eugene, then worked as an officer in Lebanon for many years. He came to Carlton as chief in early 2012.

He led the effort to win accreditation for Carlton’s three-officer department. Legion members also remarked on his community service efforts. “If you need anything done, just ask him,” said Paul Truax, chairman of the national security for the Oregon Legion.

Martinez accepted the award, crediting his department, community and his family for their support of his efforts. He especially thanked his wife, Christy, who worked on the accreditation effort.

And he noted that community partnership, including one with Carlton Post 173, is key to his department’s success. Legion members work with the police on events such as National Night Out, and the post lends its meeting room to the police for community safety meetings.