Thankful for veterans' send-off for new recruits
By The Bakersfield Californian
My 17-year-old son, Anthony, left for Navy boot camp on Nov. 19. As I drove alone to the Navy office to say my final goodbye, imagine my surprise to see about 40 motorcycles parked outside.
The riders were veterans from all branches of service, business owners, and other citizens who were there to provide an escort to my Anthony and another young service member as they left their hometown of Bakersfield.
As I looked around, a young girl came up to me and gave me a hug. She told me she was 13 years old when her brother went into the service. There was Steve, a Navy veteran who spoke to us and looked like he could take care of anything.
Denise told us a little bit about "Ben" who was the leader of this awesome group of people as well as the owner of the local Harley store.
These folks could have been doing anything else on that sunny afternoon. They chose to show these young service members that they cared and were there for them.
They joked, prayed and thanked us. I was a little overwhelmed and a little emotional. If they could have felt this mother's heart at that moment, they would know just how thankful I am for each and every one of them.
The only thing I managed was "God bless you all!" I am so thankful to the Armed Forces Support Riders, American Legion Riders, Patriot Guard Riders and all the other bike clubs present that day.
Linda Kennedy
Bakersfield
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