“Thank you, thank you, thank you!” Centenarian Veterans receive thanks at ceremony in the capitol rotunda
By Gregory House, Public affairs specialist
The Utah State Capitol was filled with gratitude and admiration as the state of Utah and the VA Salt Lake City Health Care System (VASLCHCS) joined together to honor a remarkable group of 25 Utah Veterans who are approaching or have already hit a significant milestone: turning 100 years old.
The ceremony, held beneath the Capitol rotunda, brought together Veterans, their families, state officials, and community members for a heartfelt celebration of service and longevity. Each centenarian Veteran was recognized with a gift from the governor’s office and challenge coin presented by Utah Lt. Governor Deidre Henderson and a commemorative VA Centenarian Celebration coin from VASLCHCS in recognition of their century of life and their service to the nation.
The honorees represented a range of military service and their stories echoed resilience, sacrifice, and community. Many shared their experiences in uniform and reflections on what it means to reach such a milestone.
Don C Stephens, who served in the Navy during World War II, said the day was exciting for him and his family. “It’s been the thrill of a lifetime,” he said. “I was in for 5 years and then came back because I liked being in the military.”
Stephens, who turned 100 on October 12 expressed gratitude for the recognition. “I never would have expected it, but it has been a thrill,” he said. “Thank you, thank you, Thank you!”
Representatives from the VA Salt Lake City Health Care System attended to celebrate the Veterans and reaffirm the organization’s commitment to caring for Utah’s aging Veteran population. Executive Director Angela Williams presented each Veteran with a commemorative coin on behalf of the Department of Veterans Affairs, which read “Centenarian Celebration. 100 Birthdays and Counting,” around all six armed forces’ service seals.
Family members and caregivers also joined the celebration, many visibly moved as their loved ones were recognized. For them, the ceremony represented a public acknowledgment of sacrifice and the continuation of a legacy that spans generations.
“Congratulations to the centenarians being honored here today,” said Utah Lieutenant Governor Deidre Henderson. “I say that as the proud granddaughter of a World War II Veteran.”
As the ceremony concluded, applause filled the rotunda again and the crowd gave Utah’s Centenarians a standing ovation, not just for their age, but for their honor, courage and commitment that continue to shape the state and the nation.