Russell Martin was born on 20th November 1916 in Hartley Witney to James and Ethel (née Cator) Martin. In 1939 Russell was living with his parents in Cameron Cottage, Haines Hill, Hurst and was working as a chemist's assistant.

Russell joined 45 Squadron on 21st April 1941 as a Wireless Operator / Air Gunner, along with fellow crew members Norman Pinnington (Pilot) and Howard Irving (Observer). At that time the squadron was based at Fuka, Egypt, flying Blenheim Mk. IV bombers in defence of Tobruk and against the advancing Afrika Corps.

As well as bombs, 45 Squadron began in May 1941 to drop steel spikes on enemy landing grounds to impede movement on the ground. Russell's crew flew 'spiking' missions on 13th and 15th May but on both occasions had to abandon their flight due to technical problems. On 20th May 1941 the German invasion of Crete commenced with paratroopers landing on the airfield at Maleme. 45 Squadron was diverted to the defence of the island and on 27th May Russell's crew was part of a three plane mission to 'spike' Maleme.

Unfortunately their Blenheim Mk. IV no. Z5896 crashed on take-off from Fuka and burst into flames. Flying Officer Pinnington and Pilot Officer Irving were killed instantly, while Russell Martin was bravely rescued from the burning wreck by ground crew. Russell suffered extensive burns and died in hospital in Alexandria two weeks later. He now rests in the Alexandria (Chatby) Military Cemetery. His fellow crew members are buried in the El Alamein War Cemetery.