J.R. Martinez First Biracial Roses Parade Grand Marshall

The Salvadoran-African-American actor and former U.S. Army soldier led the most parade in the world.

By Jorge Rivas Jan 02, 2012

J.R. Martinez, the Salvadoran-African-American actor and former U.S. Army soldier, became the first biracial [Grand Marshall at this year’s Tournament of Roses Parade. ](http://www.pasadenastarnews.com/news/ci_19239354) Martinez was born in Shreveport, Louisiana to a mother from El Salvador and a father who is black. He became a household name when he became the winner of the 13th season of ABC’s "Dancing with the Stars." In 2003, Martinez was wounded in Iraq and suffered severe burns to more than 40 percent of his body. Martinez, 28, is also one of the youngest Grand Marshalls to lead the Rose Parade.