[5] Martin joined The Haldimand Rifles militia regiment in 1909 in the role of bugler.

As a lieutenant, he spent seven months in France and Belgium, where he survived a gas attack.

In 1917, he qualified as an observer with the Royal Flying Corps and, the following year, he earned his pilot's wings.

During the Second World War he was responsible for training hundreds of men in Canada.

[6] Shortly after 1939 Martin was promoted quickly through the officer ranks from colonel to brigadier.