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One hundred and sixty thousand Utahns are military veterans; nationwide, there are more than 23 million. Now a new generation gives growing importance to this day.
Thirteen Utah veterans were honored at the University of Utah. Imprisoned, injured or involved in heavy combat, 12 of the 13 served in World War II.
The veterans remain humble about their sacrifices and praise those who did not come home.
"I got to come home and marry. I think some of the best blood in America was left over in those islands," said World War II veteran Neil K. Holbrook, of Spanish Fork.
Holbrook was one of the Navy's original "frogmen" during World War II. Trained in underwater demolitions, they carried out 26 missions in the Pacific.
"We would blow up any obstacles in the way for the landing troops, and blow up any channels. We got it ready for the troops to land. We dropped the initial troops off and went back and got more," Holbrook explained.
At Northwest Middle School in Salt Lake, students held a special ceremony to retire a storm-tattered Old Glory. Boy Scouts presented the flag to the students, who recited the Pledge of Allegiance then officially retired the flag outside by burning it.
At Clayton Junior High, soldiers got a huge round of applause, and Congressman Jim Matheson talked with students about military service.
"Kids in junior high today, one of their first memories is September 11th. It's where there's a clear threat to this country and where our military had to respond, and I think that kids remember that freedoms we enjoy are based on the military providing that defense for our country," Matheson said.
Meanwhile, Congressman Rob Bishop appeared at a Veteran's Day ceremony at the State Capitol.
Speakers there paid tribute to those currently serving in the military. They reminded the audience to support veterans when they return home.
Veterans Day 2008 is very relevant across the age groups. Holbrook told us that as a World War II veteran, he recognizes the challenges we face today and is inspired by the leadership he sees in younger generations.
E-mail: jboal@ksl.com
