Utahns attending the second annual Armed Forces Day were challenged Friday evening to step forward and make a difference while supporting our nation's military.
"My fellow patriots, we are a nation at war," said Brig. Gen. Peter S. Cooke, deputy commander of the 96th Regional Readiness Command in Salt Lake City. He said the United States now has more military units called up than at any time since the Normandy invasion during World War II.
"Defending our country is the most noble service a citizen can give."
He said in view of current events, Americans must double their efforts because service in the armed forces can be a lonely road.
"There are many lonely steps and times away from those we love," he said.
Living in a world of risk, Cooke said, America has decided not to play it safe. Citizens should not take a "whatever" attitude, but should show concern for the nation.
"We can make a difference," Cooke said.
Murray Mayor Daniel C. Snarr said World War II encompassed the "greatest generation this country has ever produced."
He spoke about a cousin, killed during World War II, whom he never had the chance to meet. Newell M. "Mac" Snarr was killed while serving as a B-17 gunner on April 7, 1945.
"The story of Mac's life can be told over with countless different names. I hope we never forget that 'greatest generation,' " he said.
Snarr also said he considered it a great honor for the Armed Forces Day celebration to be held in Murray again this year.
More than 500 people attended the program at the Murray City Amphitheater, which featured the 23rd Army Band and the Choral Arts Society of Utah. Tunes played included "From Sea to Shining Sea," "Zion's Walls," "Gallant Seventh" and "Liberty Fanfare."
KUTV meteorologist Sterling Poulson, also a tech sergeant with the Utah National Guard, was the master of ceremonies.
If you missed this free event Friday, additional military events are planned today — color guards, military displays, rides, games, music, a KC-135 flyover and more in Murray Park, 5300 S. State, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
There's also a military ball, 7 to 10 p.m. in Murray High School, 5440 S. State. Tickets ($25 a couple), available for purchase at the door, are required. Proceeds from the dance benefit the Military Family Readiness Groups.
"We are doing this for family members of the Armed Forces and the public," said Maj. Brock McLean, a member of the U.S. Army Reserve, who organized the events. "We want to show our appreciation for their support and we also wanted to have a time that family members could enjoy the day."
E-mail: lynn@desnews.com