Recent events remind Utahns of the sacrifice and heroism of our fallen military heroes and the bright future of service that lies ahead.
On Monday afternoon, despite sweltering heat, an outdoor dedication of the state’s first Gold Star Families Memorial Monument was held. Representatives from local law enforcement and government, the Utah National Guard, Lt. Gov. Spencer Cox and Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes, among others, were present, as were the family members of several fallen soldiers.
Jennie Taylor, who spearheaded the project to create the monument, wants it to spark meaningful conversations. Taylor’s husband, Maj. Brent Taylor, of North Ogden, was killed in Afghanistan in 2018. “When you see (the monument), we hope it starts a conversation,” she said. “It’s dedicated to the families, the relatives, the loved ones.”
The monument is a fitting tribute to the many Utahns whose loved ones paid the ultimate price for our nation. Among those present at the dedication were Debbie and Mark Allen, parents of U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Kenneth “Kage” Allen, who was killed in an accident on June 15 in England.
In a letter to the editor published in the Deseret News last week, the Allens wrote to all who’ve paid homage to their son: “May God continue to bless America through wonderful people like you. ... Miraculously, even while grief brings waves of nausea and heartache, kindness has brought smiles, healing sunshine amidst rain.”
While giving deference to the many who have paid the ultimate sacrifice throughout our state’s and nation’s history, the future will be carried by those who continue to wear the uniform. The newest leader of Utah’s largest military base is among them — Col. Jenise Carroll, of the 75th Air Base Wing at Hill Air Force Base.
Carroll, who was sworn in two weeks ago, has a wealth of military experience and unique perspective as a woman of color. She is poised to be an effective leader during this distinctive time in our nation’s history.
To promote racial equity, Carroll told the Deseret News’ Jasen Lee, she will focus on open conversations. “Right now, as our nation is looking at starting a dialogue with all things racial and the racial disparity, inclusion (and) opportunity, it’s all about the dialogue,” she said. “What we don’t know is what people are thinking because we haven’t asked.”
And in providing opportunities for women, she will lead by example. “(W)hat I offer women as I serve in this role is there’s nothing that we can’t do. Given the opportunity, go for it. You may not see anyone that looks like you in that role, but that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t break down that barrier and move forward to show the next generation that it is possible.”
The price our state’s fallen heroes have paid for our freedom is one that demands our respect. In honoring them and their families, our state is poised to carry on their legacy through strong, adept leaders like Carroll. As we look to the past with gratitude, we can likewise look to the future with confidence.