Ninety-six-year-old Minnesota World War II veteran Ersie Quimby is a little worried about whether he’ll be up to the task of hoisting the flag prior to today’s Twins game, the West Central Tribune reports.
But the Willmar resident will have 81 friends and family members, including nine children, gathered around him if he needs help, the newspaper reports.
The Twins have a long tradition of recognizing veterans at home games. The sharp-witted Quimby, who has a quick smile and is an avid reader, was nominated for the Memorial Day honor by a family friend.
Quimby, who was drafted into the Army in 1942 and served in Africa, Italy and Germany, drove an ammunition transportation truck, the Tribune reports. The ordnance included deafening 200-pound shells that took four men to load.
“I think that’s why my ears went,” Quimby told the newspaper.
Several Twins urged fans to remember fallen military service members today.
https://twitter.com/CParms27/status/470923256913203200
Happy Memorial Day everyone! Never forget the great sacrifice others paid so we could live in this great country. 🇺🇸
— Phil Hughes (@PJHughes45) May 26, 2014
The Twins (23-24) on Monday start a four-game home stand against the Texas Rangers (25-25). Veteran right-hander Kevin Correia, who has been inconsistent this year, will start for Minnesota. Texas will send in second-year starter Nick Tepesch.
Game time is at 1:10 p.m.
