Capt. Daniel “DMart” Martins is a native of Roselle, New Jersey, and graduated from Boston University with a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and History. He was commissioned through the Boston University Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps Program, and subsequently received a master’s degree in U.S. History from George Mason University in 2017.
Following completion of flight school, Martins was designated a Naval Aviator and has served in operational tours worldwide. His sea tours include Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light 43, (HSL-43), Carrier Air Wing NINE staff helicopter operations officer, Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 77 (HSM-77) department head, and Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 37 (HSM-37) executive officer and commanding officer.
Ashore, Martins qualified as a Seahawk Weapons and Tactics instructor and served at the Helicopter Maritime Strike Weapons School Pacific, then served as air domain officer at Joint Force – National Capital Region through two State of the Union addresses, one presidential address to a joint session of Congress, the Nuclear Security Summit National Special Security Event (NSSE), Papal Visit NSSE and Inauguration Day 2017.
Martins is a plankowner and served as the first Skipper of the MH-60R Weapons School, Seahunter, at Naval Aviation Warfighting Development Center at Naval Air Station (NAS) Fallon, Nevada.
On April 10, 2025, Martins assumed command of NAS Sigonella, Sicily.
Captain Martins has accumulated more than 3,000 flight hours in the MH-60R and SH-60B. His awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (two awards), Air Medal with Bronze Star, and various unit commendations and service/campaign awards.
He is married to the Elizabeth Martins of Clearlake, Texas. They have two daughters, Malia and Aliana.
Last Updated: 10 April 2025