Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs

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.

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.

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!

Please join us as we honor the fallen at our department's annual Memorial Day Wreath Laying Ceremony on Monday, May 25, 2026, at 10:00 AM on the South lawn of the Utah State Capitol. We invite the public to attend this solemn observance to pay respects to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

To find a Memorial Day ceremony or event near you, please visit our official events page on the Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs website: https://veterans.utah.gov/events/

Today, on Children of Fallen Patriots Day, we pause to recognize the sons and daughters carrying a loss no child should ever have to bear. Behind every fallen service member is a family forever changed. Birthdays missed, graduations without a parent in the crowd, and countless other events where sacrifice becomes deeply personal.

These children are part of our military and veteran community too. Their strength, resilience, and courage deserve more than one day of recognition.

As we honor the men and women who gave their lives in service to our nation, we also stand with the children they left behind. Their stories matter. Their futures matter. Their parents’ sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Join Dugway Army Community Service for the Linking Families Community Prevention & Resource Fair this Saturday, May 16, from 10 AM to 2 PM at the Hogle Zoo Pavilion. Military families are invited to enjoy free zoo admission with ID while connecting with valuable local resources, fun activities, and exciting giveaways designed to strengthen and support families.

https://youtu.be/b61Zj2FsBaU

May 8th is Military Spouse Appreciation Day by Utah Lt. Governor Deidre Henderson Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

Today, we honor the heart of the home front! Happy Military Spouse Appreciation Day! To the partners who manage frequent moves, solo parenting, and the uncertainty of deployments with grace and grit: We see you. You are the silent strength behind the uniform, building community wherever the mission lands. Your resilience keeps our military families whole and our spirits high.