Their Courage. Our Thanks.This Veterans Day in Utah, we proudly honor the service and sacrifice of our military veterans and active-duty personnel by joining with dozens of Utah-based companies to offer free or discounted services as a token of gratitude. From local businesses giving complimentary coffee to larger chains offering free meals or special discounts, it’s our community’s way of …
UDVMA Assures Continued Support for Veterans During U.S. Government Shutdown
Salt Lake City, Utah — 2 October 2025 As the nation experiences the impacts of a federal government shutdown, the Utah Department of Veterans & Military Affairs (UDVMA) is reassuring Utah’s veterans, service members, and their families that state-level support remains strong and available. “Utah’s veterans and military families deserve stability and access to the benefits they’ve earned, regardless of …
Women War Nurses: A Community of Healing
Women War Nurses: A Community of Healing is a new theatre-based project that will bring together Utah’s veteran nurses who served in combat injuries and trauma. Too often, the stories of these nurses—who made life-and-death decisions under immense pressure and carried that experience into civilian life—go unheard. Through guided workshops led by a professional playwright, director, and intimacy director, participants will …
POW/MIA Recognition Day declared in Utah
SALT LAKE CITY, UT — On September 19, 2025, 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 …
Mission Ready Wellness Fair: A Testament to Community Support for Veterans and Families
On Friday, July 18th, the Miller Conference Center at the Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) Sandy Campus hosted the inaugural Mission Ready: Military, Veteran & Family Wellness Fair. This free community event, proudly presented by the Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs (UDVMA) in collaboration with the Utah Department of Health and Human Services and with the support of …
Preserving HERstory: Utah Joins Push to Document Military Women
At the Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs, we believe every veteran’s story deserves to be heard and preserved. That is why we are asking women Veterans in Utah to participate in the Military Women’s Memorial Strive For 500 Campaign by sharing their stories and experiences serving our country. For generations, women have served our nation with unwavering courage, …
Utah Honors 33 New Purple Star Schools in Statewide Ceremony
ROY CITY – In a ceremony on June 10, 2025, at Roy High School, hosted by Weber School District, Utah recognized 33 new Purple Star Schools for their commitment to supporting military-connected students and families. With these additions, the state now boasts a total of 101 Purple Star Schools—an impressive 49% increase from 2024 to 2025.Purple Star Schools provide crucial …
Utah Salutes Its Finest: Honoring the 2025 Service Members of the Year
SALT LAKE CITY, UT – Utah paused on Monday, May 12, 2025, to celebrate the remarkable dedication and achievements of its military community at the fifth annual State of Utah Service Member of the Year Awards. Hosted by Governor Spencer Cox and the Utah Department of Veterans & Military Affairs, this event recognized the top performers from across the Army, …
UDVMA named an Enduring Partner by the Military Spouse Employment Partnership
SALT LAKE CITY, UT — The Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs (UDVMA) is pleased to announce its selection as a Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP) Enduring Partner Employer by the Department of Defense. This recognition from the Department of Defense highlights UDVMA’s ongoing commitment to supporting military spouses through active recruitment, hiring, and the provision of meaningful career …
Utah Honor Flight brings ‘virtual flight’ experience to veterans in Payson
“Utah Honor Flight brings ‘virtual flight’ experience to veterans in Payson” by Alex Cabrera, KSL TV, March 30, 2025, https://www.ksl.com/article/51285549 PAYSON — If there were ever a soundtrack to service, the sound of bagpipes and drums would be a fitting choice. On Saturday afternoon, that music echoed through the halls of the Bennion Veterans Home in Payson, setting the tone …
Governor Cox Declares April 2025 Month of the Military Child in Utah
This April, Utah joins the nation in recognizing the incredible resilience and strength of our military children. Governor Spencer J. Cox has officially declared April 2025 as the Month of the Military Child in Utah, a time dedicated to honoring the sacrifices and contributions of the roughly 17,000 military children who call our state home. These young heroes face unique …
2025 Utah Legislative Wrap-up
The 2025 Utah Legislative Session brought forth a series of bills aimed at supporting Utah’s veterans, service members, and their families. From enhancing protections and addressing homelessness to expanding educational opportunities and recognizing military service, these legislative actions reflect a commitment to those who have served. Here’s a brief overview of the key bills passed, covering general provisions, recognition of …
A Day of Honor and Remembrance: Marking 50 Years Since the End of the Vietnam War
SALT LAKE CITY — This past Friday, March 28th, the Utah State Capitol Rotunda became a place of remembrance and gratitude as the state observed Vietnam Veterans Recognition Day. This year carried added weight, marking the 50th anniversary of the official end of the Vietnam War. The ceremony paid powerful tribute to every individual who answered the call of duty …
Research Groundbreakers; Listening to Those Who Serve: A Study to Support Utah’s Veterans and Military Service Members
By Amanda Ashley, Sr. Director of Research & Innovation Communications — Published originally on research.utah.edu. Behind every breakthrough at the University of Utah, there’s a researcher driven by curiosity, passion, and a commitment to solving real-world problems. Research Groundbreakers is dedicated to showcasing these innovators—the faculty, scholars, and entrepreneurs whose work is shaping industries, improving lives, and expanding knowledge. From …
Utah Legislature Honors all those who served during Vietnam War
SALT LAKE CITY, UT — Dozens of Vietnam War Veterans filled the Utah State Capitol yesterday, February 26th, to be recognized. The Utah Legislature, under the sponsorship of Representative Karianne Lisonbee, took a moment to formally recognize and thank all those who served in uniform during the Vietnam War. The resolution served as a testament to the state’s commitment to …