Bakersfield RAF Veteran, 105, Awaiting Replica Uniform Honoring 32 World War II Missions

BAKERSFIELD — November 7, 2026. Ron Holdsworth, a 105-year-old World War II veteran living in Bakersfield, is preparing to receive a replica of the British Royal Air Force uniform he wore as a tail gunner. British representatives are expected to make the presentation around the period leading up to Remembrance Day, November 11.

Thirty-two missions

Holdsworth served during World War II on 32 bombing missions over Germany, most at night. He told 23ABC about a daylight flight in which German fighters attacked and damaged the aircraft. He and the crew survived. Holdsworth also reflected on friends who never returned and on difficult wartime separations.

Recognition across the years

The veteran has previously been honored, including during a trip to national military memorials through Honor Flight and at Arlington National Cemetery. The planned uniform presentation will provide another opportunity to preserve and share memories from a generation with fewer living witnesses each year.

What remains to be confirmed

The reporting describes a planned tribute, not a ceremony that has already been completed. A definitive public schedule, guest list and delivery confirmation were not established. Residents interested in attending should await organizer announcements rather than assume the event is open to all visitors.

Source: 23ABC / KERO, October–November 2026.

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