J.R. Martinez Honored By U.S. Defense Department, Named Rose Parade Grand Marshal Read more celebrity gossip at: http://www.thehollywoodgossip.com/#ixzz1ezMslkUd

Let the J.R. Martinez victory tour begin.

Dancing With the Stars champion J.R. Martinez received an invitation from U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta to visit the Pentagon and meet Panetta in person.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Panetta's respect for J.R., an Iraq War veteran, motivational speaker and actor, was displayed in a congratulatory note:

J.R. and Karina Smirnoff won the ABC competition Monday.

"Your strength and spirit have captivated the nation, and your victory sends a strong message about the strength and resilience of our wounded warriors."

The Defense Secretary then personally called J.R. to invite him to meet in person. J.R. Martinez will address thousands of active and retired troops while in D.C.

It seems everyone wants a piece of the man. Along with his journey to the Pentagon, Martinez has been named the Grand Marshal of the 2012 Rose Parade. 

The annual extravaganza takes place New Year's Day. Not only that, the 28-year-old will co-host the pre-show of CNN's Heroes: An All-Star Tribute.

If you're looking for a true inspiration, you could do a lot worse.