(Photo: Kern County WWII Memorial)
A ceremony was held on May 20 at The Kern County WWII Veterans Memorial, located in Jastro Park, Bakersfield, where memorial committee members unveiled a panel of 174 new sponsored and donated names. These additions commemorate the brave men and women with a Kern County connection who served in World War II. The newly added names join the existing roster of honored veterans, etched into the granite stone, preserving their memory.
The Kern County WWII Veterans Memorial is comprised of six imposing black granite pieces arranged in a semicircle formation.
With space to accommodate an additional 1,000 names, the memorial remains open to honoring more World War II veterans, living or deceased. The Kern County WWII Veterans Memorial welcomes names of Veterans who served in any of the major military branches between 1941 and 1945 and have a Kern County family affiliation. By donating, individuals can contribute to the memorial and have the name of a WWII Veteran engraved on the granite stone. Donations are also accepted without honoring a Veteran.
The memorial stands as a testament to the bravery and resilience of those who served during World War II. The Kern County WWII Veterans Memorial is a place where the community can pay their respects and honor the legacy of World War II Veterans, ensuring that their stories are preserved for future generations.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
