'DWTS' Champ J.R. Martinez Gets Invited to the Pentagon

It's been a good week for J.R. Martinez. The Iraq war veteran won the Dancing with the Stars title, celebrated Thanksgiving, got a letter from U.S. Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta -- AND a personal invitation to the Pentagon!

Panetta congratulated the former Amy infantryman on all of his accomplishments on the dance floor and beyond in a letter. "Over the course of this competition, your spirit captivated the nation and your victory sends a powerful message about the strength and resilience of our wounded warriors," he wrote (via People.com).

Panetta also placed a call to Martinez, praising him again for his hard work and inspirational journey. At the end of the conversation, Martinez received an invite to the Pentagon. Apparently plans are currently in the works to make that meeting happen.

Martinez, who was badly burned when his vehicle hit a roadside bomb in Iraq in 2003, credits his military training for helping him prepare for the show.


Source: Deena

Posted in 2011 dancing with the stars , 2011 DWTS J.R. Martinez , 2011'DWTS' Champ J.R. Martinez , J.R. Martinez in Pentagon , Latino J.R.Martines