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 …
Utah Veterans Business Resource Center announces monthly networking events for Veteran entrepreneurs and business owners
Sandy, UT — The Utah Veterans Business Resource Center (VBRC), with support from the Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs (UDVMA) and American United Federal Union, is excited to announce a series of monthly networking events designed to support and showcase veteran-owned businesses in the community. These events, hosted at The Mill Entrepreneurship Center located at 9690 South 300 …
Utah Launches “Live On Military Playbook” to Combat Veteran Suicide
Salt Lake City, UT — Utah’s veterans face a suicide rate 1.5 times higher than their non-veteran counterparts, a statistic that underscores the urgent need for intervention. To address this crisis, the Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), in partnership with the Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs, has introduced the “Live On Military Playbook,” a specialized …
Utah Centenarian Veterans Ceremony Honors Remarkable Service and Longevity
SALT LAKE CITY — In a moving ceremony held at the Utah State Capitol Rotunda on Friday, November 10, 2023, Governor Cox and the Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs celebrated the remarkable lives and service of Utah’s 100-year-old veterans. During the ceremony, Governor Spencer Cox shared a remarkable story from World War II. He recounted the valor of …
Governor Spencer J. Cox Proclaims November 11, 2023, as Veterans Day in Utah
Salt Lake City, UT — In a gesture of respect and gratitude, Governor Spencer J. Cox has officially declared November 11, 2023, as Veterans Day in the state of Utah. This annual observance is a time-honored tradition that pays tribute to the brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Governor Cox’s proclamation underscores the …
Governor’s Award for Excellence Honors Outstanding State Employees, Including Ivette Orozco from UDVMA
SALT LAKE CITY, UT — Governor Spencer J. Cox held a ceremony at the Governor’s Mansion to recognize 26 state employees with the Governor’s Award for Excellence. This annual event, marking its 16th year, is an acknowledgment of exceptional state employees who have exhibited excellence across various performance metrics, including innovation and efficiency, energy and environment, heroism, leadership, and outstanding …