Exactly one year ago this weekend, I walked across the lush green lawn of Elk Ridge Park with Brett and Zell Allred. The events of the weekend were designed to honor our military fallen, including their son Michael, who was killed in Fallujah, Iraq, on September 6, 2004, becoming Cache Valley’s first combat casualty in the War on Terror. The memory of Michael’s sacrifice, along with the sacrifices of so many others, weighed heavily on my mind as we walked in silence.

The mature trees lining our path, planted decades ago by those who thought beyond their moment, shaded our short walk. These trees stood as a testament to the power of legacy–living and acting today to create something that will endure. This thought inspired us deeply, knowing that the mission accomplished over the last three days was, in itself, a legacy for those who will follow.

Brett and Zell, along with a small team of committed leaders, focused on a simple yet profound vision: to commemorate the twenty years since their son Michael’s death and to create an emotionally connecting experience that would honor all of Utah’s Fallen Military.

Based on what has transpired over the last three days, I can confidently say:

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!!!

While many people came together to create what we now call the “Heroes Tribute ~ Honoring Utah’s Fallen Military,” I want to specifically recognize those who led the effort and whom I had the honor to serve with: Brett and Zell Allred; Lt. Colonel (retired) Wally Odd, director of the Rocky Mountain Veterans Center; Pat Gyllenskog, widow of Vietnam Veteran Dan Gyllenskog, for whom the Veterans Center is officially named; and Lt. Colonel Lee Crosby, coordinator of the “Ride for the Fallen” and who was my Platoon Leader when we deployed to Iraq in 2004-2005.

With that introduction, I share three brief journal entries connected with the events that comprised the Heroes Tribute.

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FRIDAY – AUGUST 23, 2024 – HEROES TRIBUTE SCHOLARSHIP GALA

The Heroes Tribute Scholarship Gala tonight was everything I hoped it could be! The community came together, united by a shared purpose. Wally led with finesse, and that singing voice of his was a delightful surprise!

Congressman Blake Moore paid tribute to the Allreds and shared a touching story about his father. Brooke Hyer’s rendition of the National Anthem was both endearing and powerful. Cache County Executive David Zook presented the Allreds with a joint proclamation from Cache County, Hyde Park, and North Logan City, officially honoring Michael and recognizing the Allred family’s enduring efforts.

Wally Odd recognized several individuals with service awards, with special mention of Dr. Robert Young who has been a significant benefactor of the Veterans Center. Wally also revealed he’s quite the entertainer–more funny than odd–and definitely a talented singer!

Tonight, we can sleep well knowing we accomplished our mission and touched the one!

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SATURDAY – AUGUST 24, 2024 – HEROES TRIBUTE ‘RIDE FOR THE FALLEN’

Today was another incredible day dedicated to honoring our Military Fallen. We rode through the scenic beauty of Cache Valley, across Emigration, through picturesque Bear Lake, and back home through Logan Canyon, our very own National Scenic Byway. The landscape, combined with the purpose of our ride, made for an unforgettable experience.

Our ride was made possible by the wonderful law enforcement officers from Cache County, Logan City, and Ogden City, who provided primary escorts, supported by local officers from every community we passed through. Neighbors and friends chipped in–putting up flags, clearing branches, and sweeping sidewalks. It was a true community effort. Coffee was roasted, pancakes were flipped, and ham sizzled on grills, fueling us for the journey ahead.

Soldiers from the Army National Guard sharply presented the sacred colors, while Karin Nelson Burgoyne’s beautiful voice delivered words that touched our souls. Ryan Axtell’s rendition of “God Bless the USA” resonated deeper than ever before, reminding us all of the sacrifices made.

We solemnly read the names of one hundred of Utah’s Military Fallen. With each name, a bell tolled, followed by three volleys from rifles. The sacred notes of TAPS echoed, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts.

Bonus: Joshua Hoehne Photography captured these sacred moments on both Friday and Saturday.

Together, we accomplished our mission to honor the Fallen by creating moments that truly touched the one.

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SUNDAY – AUGUST 25, 2024 – HEROES TRIBUTE PATRIOTIC DEVOTIONAL

The Heroes Tribute Patriotic Devotional tonight, for which I was the principal organizer, may be the most powerful presentation I’ve ever been a part of.

Our focus throughout the entire Heroes Tribute weekend was to create experiences that “touched the one,” inspiring each individual to feel something that would, in turn, empower them to act.

Green Canyon High School’s Crescendo sang the American Anthem, setting a tone of reverence and unity. Nathan Christean followed with a rousing rendition of the National Anthem and “God Bless America,” which had the audience fully engaged. Our DJ, Paul Jenkins, was a master behind the scenes, ensuring the music, mics, and sound were clear and impactful (with only a couple of soft squelches).

Our featured presenter, Jennie Taylor, Gold Star widow of Major Brent Taylor, shared profound thoughts from the Constitution, connecting “We the People” to the power of truly seeing and supporting one another.

For me, the highlight was the sacred honor of recognizing our local Gold Star Family and reading the names of all the Utah Fallen. Emotions overwhelmed me as I honored Michael, and also Ron Wood who I had the privilege to serve with in Iraq.

Several people shared how deeply they were moved by the evening. Karen Tuescher, director of the Green Canyon High School Crescendo, captured the sentiment well:

“I just wanted you to know that I had so many kids and parents tell me that they felt so grateful to be there tonight and that they felt they are better people for being a part of it. You organized a really beautiful event. Thanks for the opportunity to be a part of it.”

As I reflect on this weekend and all that we have accomplished, I feel a deep sense of pride and fulfillment. We set out with a simple but profound mission: to honor the Fallen by touching the hearts of the living.

Tonight, I can confidently say, “Mission Accomplished!”

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FINAL REFLECTION

This weekend was more than a series of events–it was a powerful reminder of the legacy we are all part of, a legacy that extends far beyond our moment. Each life we honored, each name we spoke, and each heart we touched, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of those who sacrificed for our freedom.

As we move forward, let us carry this legacy with us, living and acting in ways that honor their memory and inspire others to do the same. The mission of honoring the Fallen doesn’t end here–it continues in the lives we lead and the impact we make.

Mission Accomplished… and the journey of legacy-building continues.

❤️❤️❤️

I love you, friend!

Have a great Monday! Thanks for letting me share.

Les

p.s. Take 13 minutes today to focus on your Mission to Accomplish.

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