Carl Cooper (Colonel, Marine Corps)
Today we feature Colonel Carl Cooper, the first veteran photographed by Jeff Rease. He had a remarkable 38-year tenure with the Marine Corps. A valiant warrior, he faced fierce battles in WWII's Pacific theater in Guadalcanal and Okinawa. He also served in Korea, followed by training and recruiting during Vietnam. Beyond the battlefield, Cooper spent many years teaching and coaching in high school and junior high school education. After his retirement, he dedicated another 30 years to FEMA until 2010. He was an embodiment of service and bravery whose legacy stands tall. This interview was recorded on April 10, 2019 in Vestavia Hills, Alabama.