Assurant Honors Iraq War Veteran with Shining Star of Perseverance Award |
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Written by U.S. Insurance News
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Monday, 12 May 2008 |
J. R. Martinez is a hero, both for his service in Iraq and his inspiration to the disabled in America.
For his service, inspiration, and perseverance in the face of his own difficulties, the WillReturn Council of Assurant Employee Benefits will present its annual Shining Star of Perseverance award to Martinez on May 21.
Five years ago, Martinez was driving a Humvee in Kabala, Iraq, when a land mine exploded and engulfed the vehicle in flames, trapping him inside. This accident left him disfigured and discouraged—he was afraid that his scars would affect the way others perceived him.
But through the support of his family and friends, Martinez has been able to overcome many of the effects of the accident. He is a national spokesperson for the Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes, using his experience to help others persevere through their own obstacles.
“Support from not just my family, but my friends as well, has enabled me to persevere,” said Martinez. “I now hope my story serves as an inspiration to other people.”
Martinez, whose contributions to the disabled have been documented in The Washington Post and People and on The Oprah Winfrey Show, will be the sixth recipient of the Shining Star of Perseverance award. The WillReturn Council bestows the award to those who have made the most significant recent contribution toward demonstrating perseverance through disabling illness or injury.
May is Disability Insurance Awareness Month, and Assurant Employee Benefits wants this award to raise awareness of the need for disability insurance. According to the Life and Health Insurance Foundation for Education, nearly one in five Americans will become disabled for one year or more before the age of 65, yet only 36 percent of all full-time employees have access to long-term disability insurance through their employers.
“The Shining Star of Perseverance award is one of several ways in which we demonstrate our commitment to not only helping disabled employees return to work, but also recognize those who are overcoming obstacles, conquering the odds, and achieving great things,” said John Roberts, interim president and CEO of Assurant Employee Benefits. “Our goal is to help people during difficult times and create the tools necessary to help them recover and return to work.”
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