27-05-2025
170 flags honor fallen veterans at Shafter Cemetery for Memorial Day service
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — 'All these flags that are flying out here are people that, are souls that have died,' said Navy Veteran Michael Miller.
170 flags decorate Shafter Cemetery in remembering the legacy and freedom that veterans left for our nation. Some flags have veterans' names on them, and families are welcome to take them home if they wish to.
All flags were put up by former cemetery employees and a veteran himself, Andy Alvidrez.
'It's a blessing, you know, to be back, and the work we did,' said Vietnam veteran Andy Alvidrez.
The day bringing back memories of their time served and how it changed them forever.
'It's given me a better appreciation of life,' said Miller. 'To realize that life is short and don't take anything for granted in this world.'
'We leave this place changed': Bakersfield National Cemetery holds remembrance ceremony for Memorial Day
The service included an invocation by Pastor Paul Hernandez, Presentation of Colors by Kern County Fire, and placing of wreaths.
Among all the weekend fun, veterans hope people remember those who didn't make it back from their biggest mission in life.
'Hope they don't forget to remember their loved ones and all the veterans that did their duty,' said Alvidrez.
'Just remember the people that sacrificed their lives for their freedom, to be able to…so people can go home and have the three-day weekend,' said Miller.
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