Actor, author, speaker and Army veteran J.R. Martinez speaks Thursday at Green River Community College as part of its annual Artist & Speaker Series.

The event begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Lindbloom Student Center on Green River’s main campus in Auburn.

Martinez, while deployed to Iraq in 2003, suffered severe burns to more than 40 percent of his body when he was trapped inside his burning Humvee after it hit a roadside bomb. Using that experience, he speaks to groups throughout the country about resilience, optimism and making the most of every situation.

“It is such an honor to host Mr. Martinez at the Artist & Speakers Series,” said Green River President Dr. Eileen Ely. “He overcame adversity most of us will never see and lived to share his story to motivate others. I cannot wait to hear his story.”

Martinez also worked as an actor on the TV series “All My Children” and won the season 13 “Dancing with the Stars” trophy with his dance partner. In 2011, he was featured on the cover of People, highlighted in the magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive issue and named one of its 25 Most Intriguing People of the year.

Tickets are $10 reserved and free for Green River students by calling 253-833-9111, ext. 2400.