BAKERSFIELD, Calif. - The Kern County Museum hosted a tribute celebrating those who served in the armed forces by featuring a large display of military hardware.

It was a way for the public to get up close and personal with military equipment from the past and for families to pass on the torch of love for country.

"I wanted my kids to see these old military vehicles and appreciate what went into making our country what it is today," said Cara Warwick.

The tribute show featured more than 40 vehicles, including tanks, jeeps and transportation equipment.
An M3 anti-tank gun used in World War II made a direct hit for some enthusiasts to see.

Many were taken back to a time not their own because of the surrounding of the Kern County Museum.

"Having the old cars here with the old buildings, it gives you a sense of being transported back in time a little bit. It gives you a sense of what it might have been like in the past," said Warwick.

Organizers say the museum is the perfect venue for the event.

"It's a museum, and the whole purpose is to preserve our history and share that history with our future, and that's exactly what we are doing here today," said Roger Perez, executive director at the Kern County Museum.