It was after his last active service in the Middle East that Loganville City Councilman Rey Martinez ran for, and won, a seat on the Loganville City Council. At the time, he said he didn’t expect to be returned to active service. However, he acknowledged that as a member of the U.S. Navy Reserves, it was always a possibility. It is no longer just a possibility. Martinez has received his redeployment papers. After serving 18 months of a three-year term, Martinez will ship out again in September for a six-month tour of active duty in the Middle East.

“But I will be back in April, in time to run for re-election,” he said.

Martinez, a Cuban immigrant, is also the owner of Rey’s Cuban Café. He had opened Rey’s Cuban Grill prior to his last tour, but the restaurant didn’t survive his extended absence coupled with the downturn in the economy. He then opened the smaller restaurant, still serving authentic Cuban cuisine. It is not known whether he will try and keep it open again during his absence.

Former Loganville Councilman Michael Lynch was also deployed during his council term, but he wasn't back in time for his re-election. His wife, Councilwoman Michelle Lynch, was elected and is serving a three-year term alongside Martinez.