In a heartfelt presentation May 31, Corporal Markus Cooper, a member of the Marine unit “adopted” by West Ranch High School showed his appreciation for their support when presenting a special United States flag to them.
Cooper is a 2000 graduate of Valencia High School and the son of Kathy Cooper, West Ranch health assistant. Last November, students at West Ranch High School sent 15 boxes of supplies to the Marine unit that Cooper was stationed with in Iraq. Every Marine in the unit received multiple packages from their wish lists; a special Polartec blanket, hats, gloves, food and toiletries.
Sara Ehrman, West Ranch AP History teacher, organized the purchase and shipping of blankets for each Marine and receptionist Mary Walsh spearheaded the collection and purchase of the other items.
Members of the Marine unit returned home in March. The flag they presented to the school was one that was flown over their base in Iraq.
Cooper also presented Bob with an official certificate from the Commander of Al Asad Airbase, dedicating the flag to West Ranch High School.