Veterans from all branches of the US military were recognized at the Bakersfield College football game during halftime on Saturday, Nov. 15.
A reception followed in the Huddle at the Gil Bishop Sports Center. Fifteen veterans and members of their families came out and supported the BC Alumni Association, which sponsored this event.
BC Alumni Association President Becki Whitson was a little disappointed with the turnout. She was looking forward to having hundreds in attendance at the reception, but only about 26 people went.
“I think the change in game time hurt us,” Whitson explained. “I don’t know that people really understood what was going on.”
The game was originally scheduled to start at 1 p.m. but was rescheduled to 3 p.m. because the fires in Southern California caused transportation issues for the College of Canyons football team.
Although it was publicized and announced at the game, some veterans did not make it to the halftime recognition ceremony.
With all the disappointments that came with a first-year turnout, Whitson plans on doing this event next year and hopes the word will get out from those that were in attendance this year.
For the veterans who attended, Whitson thinks they were very pleased with the recognition and were thrilled to be recognized.
Juan Flores, Army Vietnam veteran from 1965 to 1971, attended the halftime ceremony as well as the reception.
He said that he felt proud to be appreciated.
“It’s better [now] than it was for us, and I like that.”
Flores explained that he feels like the veterans who came home from the Vietnam War felt the negative side of serving in the military.
“We don’t want that to happen to others coming home. We welcome them with open arms. It’s an honor to defend your country.”