The Utah Veterans and Military Affairs Commission met June 16, 2026, to review military updates including the global mission support provided by Hill Air Force Base and the formation of a new National Guard infantry battalion.
Hill Air Force Base Operations
During the meeting held at the State Capitol, Colonel Dan Cornelius, Commander of the 75th Air Base Wing for the U.S. Air Force, provided an update on Hill Air Force Base. The presentation focused on current base activities and the installation's ongoing support for worldwide missions.
National Guard Expansion
The commission also received a National Guard update from Colonel Andrew Owens, the Assistant Adjutant General for the U.S. Army. The briefing included specific information regarding the establishment of a new infantry battalion within the state's National Guard.
Veterans Infrastructure Projects
Updates were provided regarding veteran infrastructure and healthcare. Gary Harter, Commissioner of the Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs, and Deputy Director of Facilities Jeff Hanson presented on the construction of a new nursing home in Salt Lake City and a new cemetery located in northern Utah.
Veteran Suicide Prevention Research
The commission reviewed findings from two separate reports focused on suicide prevention among Utah veterans. Dr. Michael Staley, the Suicide Prevention Research Coordinator for the Office of the Medical Examiner, and Dr. Kara Byrne, a Senior Health and Human Services Analyst with the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute, both presented their research to the committee.
Commission Oversight
The June 2026 meeting followed a period of legislative activity, as the commission reviewed legislation passed during the 2026 General Session. The committee's current leadership includes Chair Senator Todd Weiler and Representative Val L. Peterson.
Administrative Updates
The commission's recent business also included the approval of meeting minutes from October 20, 2025, and the formal acknowledgment of newly appointed and departing members. This follows previous high-level visits to the region, such as a tour of Hill Air Force Base conducted by Senator Curtis in February 2025.
