Memorial Day

The American flag flies proudly in Iraq, in memory of a Stanwood man’s grandfather A letter to family and friends:

March 19 was my grandfather Pappap’s birthday, he would have been 81 years old. He was Commander Joe Zimmerman, USN, who passed away April 20, 2007. Last night I changed out the flags at the fire department here at Ali Air Base in Iraq.

raised the flag that was flown on the ship that placed Pappap’s ashes at sea. That flag was given to Grandma Dorothy, and she sent it to me. I am flying the flag all day for Pappap’s birthday and I took some pictures so everyone can celebrate his legacy with me.

I remember sitting at dinner with Pappap and Grandma at Jimmy’s Pizza in Stanwood. I told Pappap I wanted to join the Air Force, and boy did his face light up. I am so glad that

was able to tell him that, and I wish he could see me now. I know Uncle Ed and Mike have deployed when they were in the Army and Marines, so they already know this. But when you are in a different country far from home, the American flag is sometimes the only feeling of “home” a Sailor, Soldier, Marine or Airman has.

Today when I looked up at that big, bright flag, I felt so much pride and respect for my Grandpa, for what he did and who he was.

Happy birthday Joe Zimmerman! We all love you and miss you!

Sailor, Rest Your Oar. Brennen Cornett, A1C, USAF 407th AEG/ECES/ ECEF Ali AB, Iraq/Fire & Emergency Services/A-Shift, Firefighter

(Cornett’s parents Laurel and Brad Niven of Camano Island, say, “Our oldest son’s forethought in asking for his grandfather’s flag was very meaningful to our entire family.)