Stewart Guardsman Nationally Honored for Efforts Following Afghanistan Suicide Bombing

A Stewart Guardsman was nationally recognized for his actions following a suicide bombing attack in Afghanistan that killed 6, including two with Hudson Valley ties.

Tech Sgt. Flavio Martinez was recognized for taking care of the wounded and securing an area following the attack outside Bagram Airfield on Dec. 21, 2015.

6 Airmen, including 105th Base Defense Squadron members Staff Sgt. Louis M. Bonacasa and Tech Sgt. Joseph G. Lemm, were killed when a suicide bomber on a motorcycle attacked their patrol.

Both Lemm and Bonacasa were Air National Guards at Stewart Airport. Lemm, 45, lived in Westchester and worked for the NYPD. Bonacasa, from Long Island, was serving his 4th and final military tour.

According to the New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs, Martinez, and two other Air Force security forces Airmen, have been made honorary Special Investigations agents in recognition of their actions that day.

"In a time of chaos, uncertainty, and terror, they immediately ensured the safety of other teammates, cared for the wounded and protected the dignity of our fallen," the Office of Special Investigations said in a statement.

Martinez joined the New York Air National Guard in 2009. He served in the Navy from 2000-2004.

When not serving his country, Martinez works for the Westchester County Department of Corrections.