Army Specialist Jacob David Martir‑Gutierrez was born on February 22, 1983, in Caguas, Puerto Rico, to Jose W. Martir, a Vietnam era U.S. Army veteran, and Lydia Gutierrez. At a young age he moved with his family to Connecticut, where he grew up in Willimantic and later Norwich. Jacob’s early life was shaped by a close family and a strong desire to help others, traits that would follow him throughout his life.

He attended Norwich Free Academy briefly before earning his high school equivalency diploma at the Westover Job Corps Center in Chicopee, Massachusetts. Known as a “happy‑go‑lucky kid” who liked to joke and make others laugh, Jacob held a dream from childhood — to serve in the U.S. Army. When he was 15 years old, he made it clear to his family that he wanted to be a soldier, and at 17, he fulfilled that dream by enlisting in the Army in February 2000.

Jacob’s enlistment was driven by pride and a deep sense of duty. He trained and developed into a capable Soldier, eventually being assigned to Alpha Troop, 2nd Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division based at Fort Hood, Texas. His unit was deployed to Iraq in March 2004 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, a time of intense and often dangerous operations as forces worked to establish security and stability in the region.

While on patrol in Sadr City, a densely populated and highly volatile section of Baghdad, on August 18, 2004, Specialist Martir‑Gutierrez lost his life while serving after his patrol came under enemy small arms fire. He was 21 years old. His passing marked a profound loss for his family, his unit, and all who knew him, adding to the heavy price paid by Soldiers during the conflict.

Jacob’s commitment to his fellow Soldiers and his country was recognized with honors awarded for his service. He received the Purple Heart, awarded for wounds received while serving, and the Bronze Star Medal for meritorious service, reflecting both his bravery and the professionalism with which he carried out his duties.

Beyond his military service, Jacob was remembered for his warm personality, his sense of humor, and his ability to make others smile. Family members and friends recall his caring nature, his jokes, and the way he brought joy to those around him. He was a beloved son, brother, and friend whose presence touched many lives.

His funeral, held with full military honors, brought together family, friends, and fellow Soldiers to celebrate his life and pay tribute to his service. Jacob was laid to rest at Maplewood Cemetery in Norwich, Connecticut, a place befitting his connection to community and country.

Jacob is survived by his mother, Lydia Gutierrez, his siblings Yesenia Rosas, Jasmin Antonetty, Olgita Martir, Elizabeth Martir, and Ismael Martir, as well as his grandparents, great‑grandmother, aunts, uncles, nieces, and cousins. Their memories and the stories they share keep his spirit alive among those who loved him most.

Specialist Jacob David Martir‑Gutierrez lived a life of purpose and dedication, answering his nation’s call with bravery and commitment. His legacy remains a reminder of the values of service, sacrifice, and love of country — a legacy that continues to inspire his family, his community in Connecticut, and all who reflect on the cost of freedom.

Dates:
• Birth: February 22, 1983 — Caguas, Puerto Rico
• Angelversary: August 18, 2004 — Baghdad, Iraq

Service & Achievements:
• United States Army Specialist
• Alpha Troop, 2nd Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division
• Served in Operation Iraqi Freedom
• Lost his life while serving during patrol operations in Sadr City, Baghdad
• Awarded Purple Heart and Bronze Star Medal

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