Karina Smirnoff and J.R. Martinez show off their mirrorball trophies. Photo credit: Adam Taylor/ABC
Iraq veteran J.R. Martinez has won Washington's recognition for triumphing on "Dancing With the Stars."
Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta recently wrote to Martinez and also called the "Dancing" winner today. In the 10-minute call, Panetta invited Martinez to visit the Pentagon, Pentagon spokesman Navy Capt. John Kirby said.
In his letter, Panetta wrote: "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."
In 2003, Martinez was burned over more than 40 percent of his body, including his face and hands, when the Humvee he was driving hit a roadside bomb.
Martinez later became a motivational speaker and acted on the ABC soap opera "All My Children."
In his letter, Panetta wrote, "In the eight years since your injury, you have done extraordinary work assisting other wounded warriors and raising public awareness of the challenges our service members and their families face when they return home, and I would like to commend you for your tireless efforts in this arena."
With dance partner Karina Smirnoff's guidance and support, Martinez was able to deliver the most inspirational story this season on "Dancing With the Stars."
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