Kern County relaunches Veteran ID card service with new printing machine

Under the bright lights of the Kern County Veterans Service office, a sense of renewed hope filled the air as veterans gathered to reclaim a piece of their identity. After a prolonged hiatus, the Veteran ID card service has been reinstated, allowing local veterans to carry their pride in their pockets once more.

Thanks to a state-of-the-art printing machine, veterans lined up at the office on Golden State Highway, eager to have their IDs printed. The previous machine had fallen out of service, leaving many without this important form of identification. Veteran Service Director Jose Lopez expressed gratitude for the support from Kern County District 2 Supervisor Chris Parlier, a veteran himself, and District 4 Supervisor David Couch, who helped secure funding for the new equipment.

"My goal and my hope is that by relaunching this, it removes barriers to services for veterans," Lopez stated. He emphasized that the process would be quick and efficient, allowing veterans to receive their IDs on the spot after verifying their service. This card not only serves as a second form of identification but also opens doors to various benefits and services available to veterans.

The new machine's portability means that the service can extend beyond the office, reaching communities throughout Kern County. Lopez hopes that this initiative will encourage veterans to inquire about the benefits they may be eligible for, fostering a stronger connection to the resources designed to support them.

As the veterans left with their new IDs, the atmosphere buzzed with a sense of accomplishment and community. The restoration of this service marks a significant step forward in ensuring that those who have served are recognized and supported in their ongoing journey.