Salt Lake City Mayor Jackie Biskupski and Community Liaison for the Mayor's office Tim Cosgrove cover their hearts during the reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance outside the Salt Lake City and County building November 5, 2018
SALT LAKE CITY — Salt Lake leaders and Mayor Jackie Biskupski honored veterans who also serve as city employees in a special ceremony Monday.
The flags of each military branch were prominently on display, flapping majestically in the breeze while service members in uniform awaited the beginning of the ceremony.
The nation’s flag was presented and raised by the Utah National Guard 141st Military Intelligence Battalion. All to thank those who serve the city as well as the country.
“It should be no surprise that many who choose to serve their community as city employees have also served our country in uniform,” says Salt Lake City Mayor Jackie Biskupski.
Shane Whiting is a motor officer with Salt Lake City police and also served four years in the United States Air Force. He’s grateful for the city administration’s appreciation.
“I have family members, I have friends that have passed away serving the country, and it’s always good to know that they’re not being forgotten,” says Whiting.
Biskupski describes city employees as reliable, disciplined, dedicated, compassionate, and some of the best in America.
“Too often, we fail to pause and recognize the honor of public service,” says Biskupski.
Officer Whiting says it’s encouraging to hear positive messages about the military and the U.S.
“It’s always good to hear the ‘thank you.’ That’s probably worth more than any amount of money that you could get once you serve the country,” Whiting says.
Mayor Biskupski began the ceremony with a moment of silence to honor fallen North Ogden Mayor Maj. Brent Taylor who was recently killed while on duty on Afghanistan.