Major Zimmer was born in New Mexico. He attended the United States Naval Academy and graduated in 2012. He completed flight training in October 2014.
Major Zimmer reported to Marine Air Group 39 for initial training in the UH-1Y at HMLAT-303 in January 2015. In May 2015, he reported to HMLA-369, serving in the Operations Department.
In 2019, Major Zimmer joined the 1st Marine Raider Battalion in Camp Pendleton and served as the primary FAC and Air Officer in Delta Company, 8140.
In 2021, Major Zimmer reported to MAG-39 for refresh training and as an instructor in the UH-1Y at HMLAT-303, once again serving in the Operations Department.
Major Zimmer’s formal schooling include; Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course, SERE, Tactical Air Control Party, Collateral Damage Estimation and Joint Targeting School.
Major Zimmer’s personal awards include the Bronze Star Medal, Air Medal for Individual Action, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and Armed Forces Service Medal.