Kenny Lee Martin enlisted in the US Navy on  28 August 1940 at the recruiting station in Omaha. On his paperwork he noted his occupation as garage helper, his height at 5’6 1/2” and his weight at 134 pounds. He was 20 years old, had graduated from Grand Island NE high school and the term of enlistment was for six years. The monthly pay was listed at $21.00 and when asked on the application if he intended to make the Navy a career he answered yes.