The Uintah Basin Standard and Vernal Express are pleased to present our first-ever section honoring America's veterans, past and present.

In Section C of this week's newspaper, you will find more than 50 profiles of servicemen — most of whom served in combat — from the WWII era all the way up to present-day conflicts in the Middle East.

“We want to thank all the veterans and their families who took precious time to participate in this Veterans Day project,” said Craig Ashby, publisher of the Standard. “The response to our call for information and photographs was overwhelming.

“More importantly, we wish to thank the veterans for their valuable services to the nation. They have tough jobs — and they go out and get them done.”

The section includes profiles and photographs of veterans who live or grew up in the Basin. In most cases, they tell their stories in their own words, describing tense situations in WWII's Pacific Theater, tales of the gritty conflicts in Korea and Vietnam and the progress that has been made in recent years in Iraq and Afghanistan.

In Roosevelt, the community is coming together to make Wednesday, Nov. 11, a memorable Veterans Day.

Events scheduled at Roosevelt Junior High include a display of military equipment, a reception for local veterans, and a patriotic program and concert.

At 3 p.m. the 624th Vertical Company of the Utah National Guard will display one of their newest pieces of engineering hardware along with a Humvee. The public is invited to inspect the new truck and its equipment in the parking lot of the junior high school.

Area businesses are hosting a reception to honor area veterans and active military personnel on the afternoon of Nov. 11 from 3:30 to 7 p.m. in the Junior High commons area. The Roosevelt branch of Zions Bank is donating light refreshments, and Brooks Snow Photography will offer free portraits to veterans and their immediate family at the reception.

Others businesses contributing to the reception include: Wells Fargo Bank, Uintah Basin Standard, Department of Veterans Affairs, Uintah Basin Medical Center, Strata Networks, Duchesne County Area Chamber of Commerce, Utah State University, the American Legion and the Utah Army National Guard.

A recruiter will also be on hand to discuss military careers with anyone interested in the armed forces.

A concert and patriotic program will begin at 7 p.m. in the junior high auditorium. Speakers include Roosevelt Mayor Russell Cowan, Roosevelt City Councilman/Mayor-elect Vaun Ryan and special guest Rep. Kraig Powell, R-Heber City.

Patriotic music will be provided by the Roosevelt Pops Symphony, a group of musicians from across the Basin. Musical numbers will include a medley of military and march selections.

Veterans, along with active and retired military personnel, will be recognized at both the reception and the program. World War II veterans will also be a special part of the evening program.

Community members are invited to bring your heroes, your family, your significant other and your friends to this community event. There is no charge for any of the activities.

Steve Puro contributed to this story.