Governor Spencer J. Cox has declared November 11, 2024, as Veterans Day in Utah, honoring the state’s nearly 140,000 veterans. This declaration recognizes the immense debt owed to these brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces, defending our nation and its values with courage and unwavering commitment. They represent a diverse group, with service …
Governor Cox Expands Military Leave for State Employees
SALT LAKE CITY, UT – Governor Spencer J. Cox signed an executive order on October 25, 2024, increasing paid military leave for eligible state employees from 15 to 20 days per year. This change, effective January 1, 2025, aims to better support those who serve their country both in uniform and as state employees, recognizing the dual commitment these individuals …
POW/MIA Recognition Day declared in Utah
SALT LAKE CITY, UT — On September 20, 2024, Utah joins the nation in observing POW/MIA Recognition Day to remember and honor the sacrifices of those who were prisoners of war (POWs) or remain missing in action (MIA). As Governor Spencer J. Cox stated in his recent declaration, “The absence of 1,575 Americans from the Vietnam War, compounded by the …
Utah recognizes and celebrates Service Members of the Year
SALT LAKE CITY, UT — On Friday, May 17, 2024, Governor Spencer Cox, along with the Utah Department of Veterans & Military Affairs, hosted the fourth annual State of Utah Service Member of the Year Awards. This event aims to honor the exceptional performers from each major military branch in the state, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and …
Great Salt Lake Sentinel Landscape: New Initiative to Protect the Great Salt Lake and Enhance Military Readiness
Salt Lake City, Utah — The Great Salt Lake Sentinel Landscape has been formally designated as a critical initiative under the Sentinel Landscapes Partnership. Spanning over 2.7 million acres in northern Utah, this landscape includes key military installations and the largest saline lake in the Western Hemisphere. These areas are crucial not only for national defense but also for environmental …
April Declared Month of the Military Child in Utah by Governor Cox
April is a significant month that brings attention to a special group within our community: the children of military families. Designated as the Month of the Military Child, it serves as a time to recognize and celebrate the unique contributions and sacrifices of these young individuals who play an integral role in the military community. Military children face distinct challenges, …
Utah State Capitol Hosts Inspiring Evening to Honor Women Veterans
SALT LAKE CITY, UT — On Friday, March 15, 2024, the Utah Department of Veterans & Military Affairs successfully hosted “Sisters in Service,” a special event at the Utah State Capitol Rotunda, in commemoration of Women’s History Month. This gathering was dedicated to celebrating the bravery, accomplishments, and leadership of Utah’s women veterans. The evening was marked by a compelling …
2024 Legislative Session Review: Military & Veteran Edition
After an intense six weeks and the consideration of 591 bills, the 2024 legislative session has concluded. We sincerely thank you for accompanying us through this legislative journey, and we eagerly anticipate next year’s session. Here’s a recap of the key military and veteran-related bills that were passed, impacting our community positively. GENERAL LEGISLATION SB 108 – Veteran Access to …
VA Health Care Eligibility Expands for Millions of Veterans Under New Directive
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is set to significantly expand healthcare eligibility on March 5, 2024, enabling millions of Veterans exposed to toxins and hazards during service—including those from the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, the Global War on Terror, or any post-9/11 combat zone—to directly enroll in VA health care. This also applies to Veterans exposed …
Utah Honors Families of Fallen Service Members at State Capitol
SALT LAKE CITY, UT — At the Utah State Capitol Friday morning, the Utah Legislature and Governor Spencer J. Cox recognized the families of service members who lost their lives in 2023. The event began in the Capitol Gold Room, where the families met with Governor Cox, Lt. Governor Deidre M. Henderson, Brigadier General Joseph Green, Representative Ryan Wilcox, Senator …