JR Martinez & Karina Smirnoff on Dancing With The Stars

I knew of JR from Stephen Cochran, a Wounded Warrior and featured musician on MilitaryConnection.com.  Because MilitaryConnection.com co-produces the 9/11 Freedom events with the Reagan Presidential Library each year, I invited JR to be one of our keynote speakers.  JR speaks from the heart with amazing energy, and he can easily put a smile on your face.   I was thrilled for JR when he was cast in the role of “Brock”, a wounded warrior on the soap opera “All My Children” and moved to Los Angeles.  Originally cast in a limited guest role, JR’s personality and that of his character endeared him  to the fans and the cast, expanding his role for several years until the unfortunate cancellation of the show.

JR can DANCE, and his breathtaking Rumba on Monday’s show received a standing ovation.  We wish JR success, and think he is the one to beat.  But nothing is certain, so remember to vote for JR each week by calling 1-800-868-3410.

Inspiration has danced its way into our hearts in the form of J.R. Martinez. The Dancing with the Stars contestant has continuously delivered stellar performances, but his recent rumba with partner Karina Smirnoff was a highly emotional dance for the former soldier. Martinez was overcome while dancing to Tim McGraw’s “If You’re Reading This,” about soldiers killed in action. “Sometimes in life, things happen so fast that you don’t have an opportunity to really sit back and appreciate what you’ve done,” Martinez said after the routine, which he dedicated to fallen soldiers. “Tonight was that moment. It felt like it really sunk in. Wow. I’m on this stage. I’m on Dancing with the Stars, and now I have an opportunity to really honor and pay a tribute to other service members and families that have gone on the same journey that I’ve gone on.” Please watch DWTS on Monday nights and support this hero with your vote.