In Service: Edward J. Tilma

• Age: 26

• Rank: Corporal

• Branch of service: Marine Corps

• Hometown: Oakdale

• High school: Oakdale High, Class of 2001

• Specialty: TOW missile operator

• Currently serving in: Afghanistan

• Family: Parents, Scott and Anna Mae Tilma of Oakdale

• Of note: Tilma's father served in the Navy from 1962-66 aboard the USS Kearsage. He accompanied his son on a Tiger Cruise aboard the USS Cleveland in April.

The Bee invites local families to submit information and a photo of their relative serving in the Middle East. Send to:

Bryan Justman
The Modesto Bee
P.O. Box 5256
Modesto, CA 95352
or e-mail to:
bjustman@modbee.com