KCOY Santa Maria, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo - News-Santa Barbara Memorial Service for Fallen CHP Officer
11.4.09
SANTA BARBARA - The deep and long-standing ties that bind law enforcement officers with their counterparts in other emergency services were on full display at the Sunken Gardens.
The solemn memorial service to Jarrod Martinez was steeped in tradition in keeping with the death of a sworn officer while on duty.
The 30-year-old Martinez was riding home on his motorcycle last week after appearing in traffic court on CHP business when he was struck and killed by a car on Steele Street in Los Olivos.
The driver of the car was not arrested but the cause of the accident remains under investigation and criminal charges could come later.
At the memorial service, the Commissioner of the California Highway Patrol spoke directly to Jarrod Martinez's grieving parents.
"You raised a good son", Commissioner Joe Farrow said, "a man of character and strength he served the state and the community as a member of the California Highway Patrol, you should indeed be very, very proud of him."
Other commanders spoke of Martinez's dedication and professionalism after graduating from the CHP Academy only a year ago.
"He understood his role in the department's mission and was focused on his giving his best everyday to save lives and provide quality service", said Santa Barbara Area CHP Commander Capt. Jeff Sgobba, "we as a squad and as a community ache from his loss."
"I believe it's safe to say that Jarrod has touched all of us in a very special and positive way", said CHP Coastal Division Chief Adam Cuevas, "Jarrod, we will miss you and we will never ever forget you."
Martinez' patrol partner struggled with his emotions in paying tribute to his fallen friend.
"I will forever be grateful to have known Jarrod", said Officer James Studebaker, "and although his life was cut short the impact he had on this community and the many lives he touched is immeasurable."
After the playing of Taps, there was a traditional military flyover by World War Two-era planes for Jarrod Martinez who was a World War Two buff
The memorial service for Jarrod Martinez was held in the Sunken Gardens at the Old Courthouse at the request of his widow Trisha.
The couple were married there more than four years ago and first met while both attended San Marcos High School in Santa Barbara.
They have a four-year-old daughter Julia.
Representatives of law enforcement agencies and other emergency services from across the Central Coast and southern California were on hand for the memorial service.
***************************************************************************
SANTA BARBARA - Dozens of CHP Officers from accross the state showed up for wednesday's service. The motorcade travelled from Earl Warren Showgrounds to the Sunken Gardens.
Curious passersby paused to watch the somber procession. Others, like friends of Jarrod Martinez's family took time out of their day to pay respect for the fallen CHP Officer.
Divina Johnston tearfully explained, "It's hard for me because no one should ever have to bury thier children."
Sally Padilla adds, "My heart really goes out to her and the entire family."
Friends say Martinez inherited his willingness to put others before himself at an early age.
"Just as Jarod made a name for himself in public service, he really got that from his mother. She has been doing so much for public service her entire life," says Carrie Topliffe.
"We realize that everyday that they're on duty, that their lives are at risk, and that we appreciate how they care about our community, and that we just want to give them our support," says Padilla.
Martinez died just 2 days before the anniversary of his graduation from the CHP Academy. He is survived by his parents, his wife, and their daughter.
