5701 Truxtun Ave, Suite #110
Bakersfield, CA. 93309
661-301-1006, 661-303-1245,
661-699-3046, 661-996-4840
The Kern Veterans Memorial in downtown Bakersfield was dedicated in 2007 to all Kern County veterans as a symbol of respect for their sacrifice. In 2012, Phase II, the Wall of Valor was added consisting of eight glass panels with the names of 1,013 Kern County citizens who were killed in action. The Kern Veterans Memorial executive committee has been working on the final stage, Phase III, of the Memorial. The Medal of Honor Phase III includes three granite monuments with plaques that will be added to the Memorial honoring local Medal of Honor recipients: Milo Lemert, Larry Pierce, and Leonard Alvarado. This phase also Includes enhancements, updates, and repairs to the existing Memorial.
The Kern Veterans Memorial is a solemn reminder that freedom requires sacrifice. This Memorial will continue to honor all Kern County Veterans, both living and passed.
Sgt. Milo Lemert located an enemy machine gun emplacement, which had been caus ing heavy casualties. In the face of heavy fire he rushed it singlehandedly, killing the entire crew with grenades. Continuing along the enemy trench, he reached another emplacement, which he also charged. A third machine gun emplacement opened up on him from the left and he destroyed this also. Later, in company with another sergeant, he attacked a fourth machine gun nest. He was killed as he reached the parapet of the emplacement. His courageous action in destroying four enemy machine gun nests prevented many casualties among his company and materially aided in achieving the objective.
Sgt. Larry Pierce, a squad leader in a reconnaissance platoon, displayed remarkable courage when his patrol was ambushed by enemy forces. Leading with bravery, the squad succeeded in eliminating an enemy machine gun and routing the opposing force. While pursuing the fleeing enemy, Sgt. Pierce discovered an antipersonnel mine on a dirt road. Sgt. Pierce sacrificed himself to save his squad, demonstrating indomitable courage and concern for his comrades. Through his indomitable cour age, complete disregard for his own safety, and profound concern for his fellow soldiers, he averted loss of life and injury to the members of his squad. Sgt. Pierce's extraordinary heroism, at the cost of his life, are in the highest traditions of the U.S. Army and reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of his country.
Specialist Four Leonard L. Alvarado demonstrated exceptional courage and selfless ness while serving as a Rifleman with Company D, 2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division [Airmobile) during combat operations against an armed enemy in Vietnam. In the face of enemy fire, he led his comrades through dense jungle to reach a trapped platoon. Despite being wounded twice, he continued to engage the enemy and protect his fellow soldiers. His ultimate sacrifice and his actions silenced enemy positions and saved many lives. Specialist Four Alvarado's extraordinary heroism and selflessness at the cost of his own life, above and beyond the call of duty, are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Individuals or organizations may contribute to the Kern Veterans Memorial Fund through the Kern Community Foundation website address kernfoundation.org, scanning the QR Code or sending a check to:
Kern Community Foundation - 5701 Truxtun Ave, Suite #110 Bakersfield, CA. 93309
Please write checks payable to Kern Community Foundation and write Kern Veterans Memorial in the memo line. All donations are Tax Deductible (Tax ID# 77-0555874).
The Kern Veterans Memorial is downtown Bakersfield was dedicated in 2007 to all Kern County veterans as a symbol of respect for their sacrifice. In 2012, Phase II, the Wall of Valor was added consisting of eight glass panels with the names of 1,013 Kern County citizens who were killed in action.