State Park Ranger Amber Martinez Receives “Top Awards for Physical Fitness Excellence” at Southeastern NM Law Enforcement Academy

NM State Parks

Hobbs, NM: State Park Ranger and Marine Enforcement Officer, Amber Martinez, received the “Top Cadet Award for Physical Fitness” and the “Physical Fitness Excellence Award” at the Southeastern NM Law Enforcement Academy’s graduation ceremony held in December in Hobbs, NM. Martinez, of Brantley Lake State Park hails from Chama, NM and began her career with NM State Parks as a seasonal employee at Heron Lake State Park in May, 2014.

“The Division is proud to have a leader and an all-round ranger joining the team at Brantley Lake State Park,” said Barry Lucero, Law Enforcement and Boating Safety Bureau Chief. “Ranger Martinez is a perfect example of the next generation of Law Enforcement Officers.” Her physical Fitness Excellence will be a great asset to the Division out in the field and on the water,” he added.

Martinez is the daughter of Earl and Desiree Martinez and is a graduate of Escalante High School.

The honor of top cadet for physical fitness excellence award is awarded to the student who receives an 80% overall in the 1.5 mile, 300 meter sprint, sit-ups and push-ups based upon the Cooper Standards during the 17-week session.

“This is something I have been working towards for a while now and I feel so privileged to finally be working as a Park Ranger for State Parks. I am excited to see what this career has in store for me” stated Martinez. She began work in May 2017 at Brantley Lake State Park.