A decade after the tragic loss of his young son, Seminole County Firefighter/Paramedic Chris Martin was recognized for transforming personal heartbreak into a mission that is helping save lives.
The American Red Cross Central Florida Coast Chapter recently honored Martin with a First Responder Hero Award during its 2nd Annual Great Orlando Salute to Heroes Breakfast, recognizing his dedication to pediatric drowning prevention and public safety education.
Martin, a former University of Central Florida football player who also spent time in the NFL, received the award for his leadership in raising awareness about water safety and his efforts to prevent child drownings throughout Seminole County.
His advocacy began following the drowning death of his son, Gunner Martin, on April 6, 2016.
Rather than allowing tragedy to define his family’s future, Martin and his wife, Christina, chose to channel their grief into action. Their efforts led to the creation of the Gunner Martin Foundation, which has become a driving force behind local drowning prevention programs and safety education initiatives.
In 2022, Martin took his commitment to protecting others a step further by joining the Seminole County Fire Department. He recently earned his paramedic certification and now responds to emergencies throughout the community, including drowning-related incidents where lives have been saved.
County leaders said his impact extends far beyond emergency response.
Through partnerships with the fire department, the Martin family has helped fund and distribute free door alarms designed to alert families when children access pool areas. They have also worked to educate residents about multiple layers of water safety protection and helped secure a national drowning prevention grant that expanded local outreach efforts.
“Protecting lives through prevention and education is a critical part of the Seminole County Fire Department’s mission,” said Seminole County Commission Chairman Andria Herr in a press statement. “Chris Martin’s leadership and advocacy for drowning prevention have helped strengthen awareness throughout our community and support efforts to keep families safe.”
Seminole County Fire Chief Matt Kinley praised Martin’s perseverance and dedication, noting that the firefighter has turned an unimaginable loss into a source of hope for other families.
“The Martin family has endured tremendous pain and loss, yet Chris continues to turn that tragedy into purpose by helping protect others,” said Kinley. “In my opinion, he is the definition of bravery and a tremendous asset to our department and community.”
The Red Cross award is the latest recognition for Martin’s public service. He has previously received Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ Florida Heroes Award as well as the Children’s Safety Village First Responder Award for Seminole County.
For Martin, however, the work remains focused on a simple goal to prevent another family from experiencing the loss that changed his life ten years ago.
As summer arrives and families spend more time around pools and waterways, local officials hope Martin’s story serves as a reminder that education and safety measures can make a life-saving difference.
