May 2014 story: Fort Bliss’ command sergeant major dies from wounds suffered in Afghanistan

May 2014 story: Fort Bliss’ command sergeant major dies from wounds suffered in Afghanistan

Command Sgt. Maj. Martin R. Barreras died Tuesday at San Antonio Military Medical Center in San Antonio of wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with small arms fire on May 6, 2014 in Afghanistan.

Barreras, 49, of Tucson was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team at Fort Bliss, Texas.

“Command Sergeant Major Barreras was my friend and battle buddy,” said Lt. Col. Edward Brady, the 2nd Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment commanding officer. “I’ve spent more time with him than my wife since I’ve taken command. I believe that I was the luckiest battalion commander in the Army to have him as my (Command Sergeant Major).

“While every Soldier in this formation is extremely saddened by his loss, his Bobcats are doing exactly what he would expect of us: continuing on with the mission and taking the fight to the enemy,” said Brady. “This man would do absolutely anything and everything to ensure his Soldiers came home safely.”

Barreras is survived by a wife, two daughters and a son.

May 2014 story: Fort Bliss’ command sergeant major dies from wounds suffered in Afghanistan