WINDOW ROCK, Ariz – Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez and Vice President Myron Lizer offer their heartfelt condolences and prayers for the family of Navajo Police Sergeant Lamar Martin, who passed away Nov. 4 following a medical event that occurred Oct. 9.
“The memory and honor of Police Sergeant Lamar Martin will live on in our hearts forever. On behalf of the Navajo Nation, we offer our thoughts and prayers to his family, friends, and colleagues.” Nez said. He noted that he and Lizer would also issue a proclamation to order all flags on the Navajo Nation to be flown at half-staff in Martin’s memory.
Martin served with the Crownpoint Police District at the time of his passing. He served with the Navajo Police Department for 22 years.
“It’s a sad time for the entire Navajo Nation. To his family, we offer our thoughts and prayers for you and Sergeant Martin. Our police force has lost a truly honorable and distinguished person. Please take comfort in knowing that your loved one is now in the hands of our Creator,” Lizer said.
Martin was an honored and awarded U.S. Marine Corps and New Mexico Army National Guard veteran, who served in support of Iraqi Freedom in 2004 and 2009. He served as a Defensive Tactics Instructor, a General Instructor and a Field Training Officer, a member of the Strategic Reaction Team and was a consummate professional conducting his duties in the service of the Navajo people with the Navajo Police Department.
“During the time of mourning, our police family wants Sergeant Martin’s family to know that we are with you and stand ready to assist in any way. We ask for your prayers and support as we navigate this difficult time,” Police Chief Phillip Francisco said.
The funeral procession and service is being coordinated by the New Mexico Army National Guard and the Navajo Police Department with direction and oversight by the family of Sergeant Martin. The New Mexico Army National Guard will provide full military funeral honors. The procession and funeral services will start Nov 8 at 8 am from Compassion Mortuary in Grants. The law enforcement escort will travel through west I‑40 to exit 26 and will proceed on United States Route 66 to the Rehoboth High School Gym.
The funeral service will begin at 10 am at the Rehoboth High School Gym. The procession will resume after the service to the burial site, at the Gallup State Veterans Cemetery, at 333 National Cemetery Dr., Gallup.
There will be a public reception held after the burial service at the New Mexico National Guard Armory.
The family of Lamar Martin requests anyone wishing to make food and water donations deliver them to the Crownpoint Police District. The family has also established the Lamar Martin Memorial Fund with Wells Fargo Bank. Contributions can be made at any Wells Fargo Bank location.
