Brandon Muncy
Kern Valley Sun

The flags flew, the American spirit was felt, and there were teary eyes throughout as the Kern Valley Cemetery District honored local veterans on Veterans Day. Veterans from all branches of the military were on hand to listen to notable speakers, speaking of both military history and military future. The cemetery was decked head to toe in red, white and blue, complete with American Flags at the grave markers of fallen veterans.

The veterans celebration began in true American fashion by singing of the 'Star Spangled Banner' followed by the 'Pledge of Allegiance'. What followed was speeches and poems from various community leaders. Karen Ridgeway's unrivaled performance of 'Amazing Graze' soon followed and was truly one of the highlights of the event.

Smitty Glass and Bill Rohrer salute the wreath placed on the grave of a fallen veteran during the Veterans Day celebration held at the Kern Valley Cemetary on Nov. 11.

“It's important to hold this so that people don't forget,” said Richard Schoonover, who helped coordinate the event, “We fought for and died to protect the freedoms of this country.” As the event wound down Smitty Glass and Bill Rohrer, both military veterans, placed a wreath on the gravesite of a veteran to the playing of 'Taps'.

“I'm a veteran myself,” said Tim Cox, who attended the event, “Memorial Day and Veterans Day is always near and dear to my heart. It's good to see all these wonderful people.”

Cemetary Manager Randy Kyte also had encouraging words to say regarding the event. “Putting the flags up in the cemetary every year and having the ceremony really respects and honors all veterans that served and are still serving today,” said Kyte, “We’ll continue to do this every year.”