BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — The USO Stars and Stripes event, hosted by the Housing Authority of the County of Kern kicked off Veterans Day weekend by blasting veterans back to the '40s and '50s.
The event took place at the Woman's Club of Bakersfield where everyone dressed to the era and danced the night away.
Allen Watkins, a veteran attendee shares what this event means to him.
"I am glad that someone is paying attention to us now," said Watkins. I came back from the army and a lot of our heroes didn't."
Watkins and other veteran attendees arrived at the USO Stars and Stripes party in antique cars and soon were transported back in time thanks to the Housing Authority of the County of Kern and their 25 other sponsors.
"Its a time to let them know about how much they sacrificed for our country," said Gloria Lopez-Rivera, an organizer for USO Stars and Stripes. "We are here for them and to let them know they are not alone and have not been forgotten."
Lopez shares that the purpose is to honor senior citizen veterans and their spouses that reside in low-income housing.
The night included live performances from Elvis, dancing, dinner and more.
"The USO then was an organization that was put together back in the era in the '40s to entertain the troops so they weren't lonely or missing their families," Lopez-Rivera said.
Watkins says that he transplanted here because of how well the city of Bakersfield honors their veterans and loves attending events like this.
"They appreciate us here," Watkins said. "Bakersfield appreciates their veterans so I am grateful to be here."
- The Housing Authority of Kern says that if you know a senior citizen or veteran in need of housing be sure to visit their offices or call them at 661-631-8500.
