More than 30 years ago when (then) Fort Lewis base commander John Zimmermann left for Vietnam, he never dreamt that on his 90th birthday, the Lakewood American Legion Art Wrye Post 187 would honor him with a new Flags Program.

"It's a great feeling to be honored this way," said Zimmermann, a former U.S. Army Air Corps pilot who celebrated his birthday July 27. He served in World War II, Korea and Vietnam.

"My best memory of the war was when General Patton gave a ‘frag' order to bomb a German bridge. We blew it up, but it left him isolated and cut off from troops who were on the other side. He had signed the order without knowing it. We nervously waited for him to blow up. I didn't think then that I'd survive the military. It's nice to be appreciated now."

The Flags program, though new to Post 187, is a successful program in Bellingham's legion. By request only, the program honors veterans by creating a flag display at their homes. Usually displayed on the front lawn, it's symbolic of a special event in the life of the honored veteran.

"The display stays for a week," said Post Commander Roger Dube. "This is the second one we've done. Each design is customized to fit the space, and we do it for any occasion - the main objective is to honor veterans."

Once the display is taken down, the Legion presents a certificate of appreciation to the veteran. "It's a small way of honoring them for all they've done," said John VanScoyoc, a Post 187 service officer.

Three different chapters of American Legions attended the ceremony for Zimmermann at his home in Lakewood.

"This is a great program," said Dennis Hugo, the Lacey Post 94 commander and a former Sailor who served in Korea.  "It's a wonderful way to honor members."

With 124 members and 26 auxiliary members (mainly spouses), Lakewood  American Legion Art Wrye Post 187 is growing rapidly, thanks to the efforts of former post commander and current 4th District Riders American Legion President Bill Cunningham.

"This ceremony is the combined efforts of three posts," he said proudly. "It's all about teamwork and it means a great deal to us and to members."

Membership is open to all branches of the military including active duty Servicemembers, their spouses, and retired veterans and their spouses. The organization helps veterans with claims, understanding their benefits, and raises funds for community programs. It hosts events such as coffee stops, roundtables and spring and fall conferences. Auxiliary members also host bazaars and volunteer at events. 

"It's great that we have so much support and recognition now," said Leonard Medlock, a post member and 20-year veteran who served in WWII whose best memory of war was getting orders to return home.

"At the Lakewood chapter," said Frankie Dube, auxiliary president and wife of Post Commander Roger Dube, "we do whatever it takes to honor Soldiers and veterans and say thanks."

For more information, visit the post at 9315 Gravelly Lake Dr., or call Dube at 253-278-3692.