Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs

09/01/2026

Please join us on September 11, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Utah State Capitol Rotunda as we come together to honor those we lost and those who carried on in the aftermath of 9/11.
Hear remarks from Governor Spencer Cox and Major General Brian Tarbet, with musical performances by the 23rd Army Band of the Utah National Guard Canyon Winds.
Join us as we remember, honor, and never forget. We hope to see you there. 🇺🇸

08/29/2026

For more than a century, Marine Corps Reservists have balanced careers, families, and life at home with a commitment to be ready when our nation calls.
On August 29, we celebrate the birthday of the Marine Corps Reserve and recognize the men and women who have strengthened the Corps since 1916.
Reserve Marines have served alongside active-duty Marines through wars, humanitarian missions, national emergencies, and countless operations around the world. When needed, they leave jobs, classrooms, and families behind to step into a role that asks a great deal of them. That willingness to serve deserves our recognition.
Today, we thank generations of Reserve Marines for answering the call, and we recognize the families, employers, and communities who help make their service possible.
Happy 110th Birthday, Marine Corps Reserve.
Semper Fidelis.

08/04/2026

Today we celebrate the birthday of the United States Coast Guard and honor the brave men and women who have dedicated themselves to protecting our nation’s waters, safeguarding lives, and serving with honor, respect, and devotion to duty. Thank you for your unwavering commitment and sacrifice. Happy Birthday, U.S. Coast Guard! 🇺🇸⚓

07/17/2026

The Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs proudly supports the 2026 , running from July 13–August 9, 2026. Military and veteran families – share what military life is really like, and inspire change. Take the survey today! https://bluestarfam.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6hd9HQn0l6F43Uq?Source=SurveyOutreachPartner
◦ Disclaimer: To participate you must be military-connected, 18 years of age or older, have access to a device with Internet, and provide consent. The survey is for research purposes only and should take about 20 minutes to complete online. When you share your experiences, you can choose to enter a drawing for 1 of 10 $100 Amazon gift cards. If you have any questions about this research, please contact Dr. Emily Becher at [email protected]

07/02/2026

This Independence Day feels a little different.
As communities across the country gather for parades, backyard barbecues, fireworks, and time with family, we also mark a remarkable milestone – America's 250th birthday.

For 250 years, our nation has been shaped by ordinary people willing to do extraordinary things. Farmers, teachers, immigrants, entrepreneurs, service members, and neighbors who believed in the promise of something bigger than themselves. The American story hasn't always been perfect, but it has always been one of perseverance, renewal, and hope.

Saturday, we celebrate the freedoms we enjoy and remember those who fought to secure and defend them through every generation.

As the stars and stripes wave overhead, may we take a moment to reflect on where we've been, appreciate where we are, and consider the role each of us plays in the chapters still to come.
Happy Independence Day, America. Happy 250th Birthday.

06/23/2026

Today we recognize the birthday of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, an organization that has quietly served America's waterways and communities since 1939.

Made up entirely of dedicated volunteers, Auxiliary members support the Coast Guard's mission through public education, boating safety programs, vessel examinations, emergency response support, and community outreach. They give their time not because they have to, but because they believe in serving others.

While many people may never see their work firsthand, their impact is felt every day. From helping keep recreational boaters safe to supporting missions during emergencies and natural disasters, Coast Guard Auxiliary volunteers help strengthen maritime safety across the nation.

Their service is a reminder that protecting our communities isn't always about wearing a uniform full-time. Sometimes it's about stepping forward, volunteering, and making a difference where it's needed most.

Happy Birthday to the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, and thank you for 87 years of service.

06/14/2026

June 14 is one of those rare days when two important pieces of our nation's story come together.

On Flag Day, we recognize the Stars and Stripes. A symbol that has flown through times of triumph, challenge, and sacrifice for nearly 250 years. It represents the freedoms we enjoy and the values that continue to unite Americans.

The same day also marks the birthday of the United States Army. Since 1775, generations of Soldiers have answered the call to serve, defending the nation at home and abroad. Their service has helped preserve the ideals represented by the flag they wear on their uniforms.

From the Revolutionary War to today's missions around the world, Army Soldiers have carried forward a legacy of courage, duty, and commitment.

Today, we honor both the flag and the men and women who have stood beneath it in service to our country.

Happy Flag Day and Happy 251st Birthday to the U.S. Army.

06/06/2026

Eighty-two years ago, thousands of Allied troops crossed the English Channel and landed on the beaches of Normandy in what would become one of the most significant military operations in history.

On D-Day, June 6, 1944, young men stepped into uncertainty, facing overwhelming odds in the fight to liberate Europe and defend freedom. Many never returned home. Others carried the memories of that day for the rest of their lives.

Today, we remember their courage, sacrifice, and sense of duty. We also remember the families who waited, hoped, and prayed for their safe return.

As the number of living World War II veterans continues to grow smaller, preserving their stories becomes even more important. Their legacy lives on in the freedoms we enjoy and the generations they helped shape.

Take a moment today to reflect on the cost of freedom and honor those who answered the call on June 6, 1944.

05/25/2026

Today, we remember and honor the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Their courage, dedication, and love for our nation will never be forgotten. Let us take a moment to reflect on their contributions and express our gratitude for the freedoms we enjoy. Thank you to all our veterans and service members. We will never forget!

05/25/2026