Date: 8/7/2012
Rank: Specialist
Branch: U.S. Army
Operation: Operation Enduring Freedom
Our beloved, son, brother, grandson, nephew and cousin, Spc. Ethan Jacob Martin gave the ultimate sacrifice for his country, family, and friends Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2012, in Koragay, Afghanistan, while serving his first tour of duty.
Born Dec. 30, 1989, Ethan was the joy of his parents’ lives. His childhood years were spent hunting, fishing, and playing in Bonners Ferry until his sophomore year in high school. He then moved to Lewiston, where he spent most of his time with friends, driving his car and loving life. He graduated in 2009 from Lewiston High School and shortly after he made the decision to join the military. He attended boot camp in Fort Knox, Ky., and was assigned to 1st Squadron, 40th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska. He served his country from October 2009 to August 2012.
Preceded in death by two of his grandfathers, LeRoy Oakes and Ron Marcy, Ethan is survived by numerous family and friends. Ethan is the proud son of Kristie Surprenant and Harv Martin, stepfather Bob Surprenant and stepmother Pam Martin. He is the beloved grandson of Frances Oakes, Paulette Marcy and Harvey Martin. Ethan is the brother of a proud and loving sister, Nichelle Gau, and his brother-in-law, Jeremy. Ethan also leaves behind step-siblings: Amber Huseby, Laura Kuhnhousen, Mark Young, BrandonDahlberg, Kristin James, Matt Surprenant and Tara Surprenant, aunts, uncles, cousins and countless friends.
Loved by everyone who knew him, Ethan had a special talent for touching the lives of everybody around him. His contagious smile, joy-filled laugh, and amazing sense of humor made Ethan the incredible person he was. Ethan was always willing to help anyone, putting their needs before his own no matter what. He will forever be remembered for his carefree attitude, love of life, goofy smile, and his incredibly annoying habit of never planning anything more than an hour in advance. He has made a mark on the lives of his family and friends that will touch them forever and will never be erased.