 A Celebration Decades in the Making
At Baldwin Priesmeyer, we believe that patriotism isn’t just symbolism—it’s action, pride, and respect. This belief inspired us to join The Surprise Squad and KMOV St. Louis in honoring Louis “Tip” Tippett, a local World War II Navy Seabee turning 100 this Memorial Day in Hazelwood, Missouri.
Tip enlisted in 1943 at age 18 and served in Saipan driving pilings in the harbor. Despite the hardships of war, he was affectionately known as the “cheerful cherub” for the joy he carried forward even on the toughest days. After his service, Tip continued to serve the St. Louis community—not with a rifle, but with his hands—working decades at General Motors and building much of the property he lived on, including the original flagpole in his front yard.
When that cherished flagpole finally gave way, we felt a responsibility—not only as flagpole experts—but as community citizens—to restore his symbol of pride.
Baldwin Priesmeyer’s Role: Crafting Honor with Quality
Founded in 1908 and proudly service-member owned, Baldwin Priesmeyer is St. Louis’s leading manufacturer of flags, custom banners, and flagpoles, serving Missouri and Southern Illinois with expert installation and care.
- When Tip’s flagpole broke, our team—led by Service Techs including veterans like Gavin Wharton and Cole Werner (CEO and U.S. Army Master Sergeant)—stepped in with precision, respect, and craftsmanship from over 115 years of experience
We delivered and installed a brand-new 25-foot aluminum flagpole, topped with an American-made flag, using professional-grade materials designed to stand for decades.
The Moment: Community, Emotion & LegacyÂ
As Tip was escorted outside by Steve Harris and members of the Surprise Squad, his expression lit up with genuine surprise and gratitude. The neighborhood gathered—spontaneously, warmly—watching as the flag was raised once more over his home.
"The flag means the whole world… It’s a representation of everyone who served and everything we fought for" .    - Louis “Tip” Tippett
For Tip, the flag isn’t just fabric—it’s a living connection to his service, his sacrifice, and the country he pledged himself to defend.
Why It Matters: More Than a Pole
- Restoring a Symbol of Integrity
Tip built his original flagpole himself—his home bore his touch. Replacing it wasn’t just a gesture; it was restoring dignity. -
Uniting Community
Local businesses—including Scott Credit Union and Gingham’s restaurant—partnered in the surprise, demonstrating how small acts can bind communities together in gratitude. -
Living Our Mission in Action
At Baldwin Priesmeyer, our commitment extends beyond selling flags—we serve those who served, with respect, quality, and heartfelt intention.
Thank you to our partners
Thank you to:
- Louis “Tip” Tippett, for a lifetime of service and an unforgettable smile
- The Surprise Squad, KMOV St. Louis, Scott Credit Union, Gingham’s, and every neighbor who turned out
- Our Baldwin Priesmeyer crew, who ensure that every flag flies with dignity and quality
Long May She Wave
To us, the flag is more than stripes and stars. It’s history, sacrifice, unity—and the promise of a legacy passed down. And when we’re called to lift it for a veteran like Tip, it’s our privilege to make that promise fly again.
— The Baldwin Priesmeyer Team
🎖️ Honoring a Hero: A Heartwarming Surprise for a WWII Veteran