National Treasure – Built on a 500-acre parcel of rolling, golden, oak-studded land donated by the Tejon Ranch Company, the Bakersfield National Cemetery is the resting place for men and women who have served in the United States armed forces, their spouses and certain members of their families. The site, opened in 2009, is beautifully designed, a place of dignity and respect, and a shining example of what the National Cemetery Administration and the federal government can do. Most of those who are buried there are older veterans who served and lived out their lives; some, like Tehachapi's Maj. Jason George (see inset), died in combat in recent conflicts. The upcoming Nov. 11 veterans Day honors all those who have served. The national cemeteries are a promise to them that the nation will honor them always.

Tina Fisher Cunningham

The Bakersfield National Cemetery is located at 30338 Bear Mountain Blvd. (State Route 223) in Arvin, exit 131 on State Route 58, one-half mile south of SR 58. It is open daily from sunrise to sunset. It was one of six new national cemeteries authorized by Congress in 2003. A grid system of numbered graves makes it easy to locate a specific person.