Utah Tech University’s football game Sept. 14 was more than just a sporting event; it was a heartfelt military appreciation night that honored servicemen and women while spotlighting the university’s newly reinstated Reserve Officers’ Training Crops program.
The night was an opportunity for the Utah Tech community to show appreciation for those who have served, are currently serving or are considering military service. Unlike other military appreciation events, this one carried extra significance due to the recent return of the ROTC program.
The ROTC’s return to campus is a collaborative effort with the Utah Army National Guard, involving cadets, members and local supporters who volunteer. Cadets helped perform 75mm cannon salutes when the football team scored a touchdown and during halftime. They conducted the coin toss to kick off the game and also assisted with various activities, like rushing the field with the team.
Captain Dalan Bennett, assistant professor of military science, said, “The biggest takeaway is that we want to be part of the community and to embody the patriotism that this community has and to bring that here to Utah Tech.”
During halftime, a video welcomed the ROTC program back to campus. Interim President Courtney White, Captain Bennett and dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences Stephen Lee spoke about the significance of the ROTC’s return and its positive impact on the university community.
“Today, we honor the brave men and women of the United States military,” White said. “These heroes embody courage, dedication and sacrifice.”
He invited veterans and service members to stand, prompting applause as the audience honored their sacrifices.
Katie Bartle, a veteran senior airman in the United States Air Force, said: “I think that it is wonderful to see military appreciation nights. It lets me see that the country cares about service members and veterans just as much as we care about the country and the sacrifices each of us made to be here.”
With the ROTC program launching this semester and Utah Tech ranked No. 1 in the state for Military Times’ Best for Vets Colleges, the event went beyond honoring veterans. It also acknowledged their sacrifices and reinforced the integration of military values into campus life.
Katherine Glaser, a junior history major from Murrieta, California, said, “We don’t get appreciated enough, so having that recognition helps a lot.”
Glaser is currently enrolled in ROTC courses and has started to enlist.
Military appreciation night highlighted Utah Tech’s ongoing commitment to supporting veterans through programs and resources that help them transition to civilian and campus life.
Sergeant Miracle Ma’ae, a junior accounting major from American Samoa, shared how the military shaped his values.
“Before joining, I was jumping from job to job,” Ma’ae said. “The military taught me discipline, loyalty and core army values like respect and selfless service.”
Appreciation for our service members doesn’t stop at just the game; Utah Tech has worked hard to foster deeper connections between our active service members, veterans and the rest of the campus community. Utah Tech provides Veterans and Military Services, which offers resources to help student veterans navigate college life.
Utah Tech demonstrates its commitment to military values through programs and events that honor service members and support their integration into campus life, emphasizing discipline, respect and dedication.
