The world lost one of our finest soul’s this week. I had the good fortune to work with Edgar (Ed) Zimmerman for many years in the banking industry. Ed was disciplined and dedicated in every aspect of his business and personal relationships. I think he would agree much of that focus came from his experience in the U S Marine Corp. Ed led by example, “offering wisdom, encouragement, and enduring love to those around him.” As a co worker Ed expected the highest levels of integrity and effort. Ed was impeccable. Ed was known for his button down dress standards and the ‘spit’ shine on his shoes. Physically, Ed could do hundreds of push ups and sit ups and amazingly went back to pass basic training testing rigors at age sixty. Ed was unswervingly committed to his family, friends and religion. I will always remember Ed for his commitment to excellence. Semper fidelis-always faithful- The Marine Corp motto and the way Ed lived his life. Ed truly leaves a lasting legacy.
I invested a bit of time learning more about the Marine culture and traditions. ‘Semper fi’ is used as a greeting or a show of camaraderie—it is a sign of respect and solidarity. It is the Marine motto, “signifying an unbreakable bond and lifelong commitment to God, Country, Corps, and fellow Marines” this spirit extends beyond active service. In the l950’s where Recon Marines imitated the “aarugha” submarine klaxon during training, the “Oorah”became a rallying cry and versatile Marine response. “It signifies unity and enriches the Marine Corps spirit, it can be expected for “everything from cheering a workout to responding to a command.”
Marine’s have embraced being called “Jarheads” or “Leathernecks”. The Leatherneck reference dates back to the Revolutionary War-the Marines high stiff collars for protection. The high and tight haircuts along with the Dress Blue high collar made the Marine’s look like a “mason jar” hence the name. 1.9 Marines were called “The Walking Dead” during the Vietnam War, ferocious fighters in heavily defended territory resulted in extraordinary casualty rates. The 1st Battallion 9th Marines adopted the grim reaper insignia. The other terms and slang associated with the Marine’s are interesting but I will move on to a tradition I discovered about Lieutenant General Puller.
LG Lewis “Chesty” Puller was the consummate Marine. Puller was one of the most decorated Marines in the Corps and the only Leatherneck ever to win the Navy Cross 5 times for heroism and gallantry in action. Puller won 14 personal decorations in combat and the Distinguished Service Cross. His battlefield leadership inspired his troops to heroic efforts. He earned the name “Chesty” not from his 5 foot 7 inch height but his barrel chested physique, strutting demeanor, and his deep booming voice. One legend suggests Puller had a steel plate in his chest from a serious wound. This bit of history explains why Marines say “Goodnight, Chesty Puller” every night in boot camp as a tribute his life and service.
I think this “Chesty” quote tells the story of this tough, courageous Marine. “We’re surrounded. Good. That means we can attack in every direction”. That quote resonated with my as it seems we are surrounded by MAGA on all sides- we must resist and persist!
During the Second World War at the Battle of Bellevue Wood, the Germans called the US Marines, “teufelshune” (Devil Dogs). The Marines fought ferociously and the enemy feared their tenacity and aggressive spirit. It is interesting the Marines in this battle often wore gas masks which likely influenced the description of a growling nemesis.
I hope each of us can summon the personal courage we see being demonstrated in Minneapolis, California, Chicago , Portland, Ore, and Maine and join the resistance.
To Ed, the sunset of your life, leaves a lasting memory for so many of us. You made a difference! Mike