Jastro Park in Bakersfield will be the site of the Kern County World War II Veterans Memorial come this November. (Photo: Julie Jordan Scott)
The Bakersfield East Rotary has donated an unspecified amount to the Kern County World War II Veterans Memorial, which is being constructed in Jastro Park, Bakersfield.
The donation keeps the memorial on track for completion this Veterans Day, as first reported by ABC 23 on Aug. 5. Construction has been ongoing since May when the committee held a groundbreaking ceremony for the memorial with city representatives in attendance.
The World War II memorial specifically honors Kern County veterans that participated in the war as well as the organizations that supported them. The memorial is expected to list all of Kern County’s estimated 684 veterans who joined the war effort.
Bakersfield’s City Council unanimously approved construction of the memorial at Jastro Park last year. Per the passing ordinance, initial funding must come from the Kern County World War II Veterans Memorial committee. However, upon completion, the city will take over maintenance costs.
The committee’s next fundraising event, a classic car show, is scheduled for Sept. 4 outside Speakeasy Bar & Grill off Downing Ave. Admission is free but there is a $25 fee per vehicle. Food, music, vendors, and a raffle are offered as well.
The committee is accepting sponsorships for the memorial’s placard until Aug. 30. Afterwards, a separate round of sponsorships will be accepted until an undetermined date.
Author: Christian Southards
Coming from a family with a proud military background and wanting to contribute his writing skills to a worthy cause, Christian began writing for the California American Legion in August of 2020. His father is a 25-year Army Veteran and his grandfather served in the Navy during Vietnam.
