Utah National Guard, Granite School District celebrate veterans at 71st Annual Veterans Day Concert

DRAPER, Utah — The Utah National Guard and Granite School District honored America’s veterans through music, student performances and recognition of military service during the 71st Annual Veterans Day Concert on Nov. 11, 2026, at the Tabernacle at Temple Square.

This year’s concert, themed “America 250: A Legacy of Service. A Future of Freedom,” commemorated the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The program honored generations of Americans who defended the nation's founding ideals and connected their legacy of service to the next generation. Performances featured the 23rd Army Band and more than 480 students from the Granite School District Combined Choir.

The program featured patriotic selections including “America: The Dream,” “God Bless the U.S.A.,” “The Battle Hymn of the Republic” and the Armed Forces Medley. The concert also featured the world premiere of “We the People,” an original rock anthem performed by Article 15, the rock ensemble of the 23rd Army Band.

“Veterans Day gives us an opportunity to recognize the generations of Americans who have answered the call to serve and defend our freedoms,” said Brig. Gen. Michael D. Kjar, adjutant general of the Utah National Guard. “This concert brings together our military and community in a meaningful way, reminding us that the legacy of service belongs to all of us.”

The evening also recognized three winners of the annual Utah Parent Teacher Association and Utah National Guard student essay contest. This year's theme, “America 250 and Me: What My Military Connection Means to Me,” invited Utah students with connections to military service to reflect on what it means to have a family member who has served or is currently serving in the armed forces.

The winners were Katy Lynn Arnold of Sunrise Elementary School in Sandy, who received a $100 scholarship; Calan Ashton of Horizon Junior High School in Syracuse, who received a $100 scholarship; and Sophie Dunn of American Fork High School, who received a $300 scholarship for the high school category. The winning essays are available at UtahPTA.org.

The concert also featured the presentation of the 17th Annual Zions Bank Veterans Service Award to Sen. Ann Millner, recognizing her longstanding advocacy and support for Utah's military members, veterans and their families. Brig. Gen. Cody Strong, director of the Utah National Guard's Joint Staff, delivered the keynote address. Now in its 71st year, the concert continues a tradition of honoring veterans, recognizing military families and connecting Utah's military community with the next generation.

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