Honoring Our Veterans: Lehi Unveils New Historical Marker at Memorial Building

The Lehi Memorial Building was completed in 1926 to honor WWI veterans. The Lehi Historical Society placed a historical marker in front of the building Tuesday. Photo: Jackson Murphy

In a heartfelt ceremony on August 28, 2024, the Lehi community came together to honor its veterans with the dedication of a new historical marker at the Lehi Memorial Building. This event, steeped in history and tradition, paid tribute not only to the brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces but also to the enduring values that have shaped Lehi, Utah, for generations.

A Community Rooted in Service and Sacrifice

​State Representative Cory Maloy, (R-Lehi,Utah) a lifelong advocate for veterans and a strong supporter of community heritage, delivered a moving speech that resonated with the crowd of local veterans, their families, city officials, and numerous residents. The Lehi Memorial Building, which was originally constructed in 1926 to honor the veterans of World War I, served as the perfect backdrop for this significant event.

Rep. Maloy shared personal stories of his own family’s military service, including the heroic tales of his granduncle, Captain Murr Skousen, a B-29 pilot during World War II who never made it back, and his grandfather, Albert George Maloy, who served in the Arizona National Guard. These stories, like many others, remind us of the sacrifices made by countless families across the nation.

“Though neither of them lived here in Lehi, their spirit—their dedication to duty—is the same spirit that runs through this town,” Maloy said. “It’s the same spirit that built this Memorial Building back in 1926 when the people of Lehi came together to honor the veterans of World War I.”

A Symbol of Enduring Values

The new historical marker, now a permanent fixture at the Lehi Memorial Building, stands as a testament to the town’s deep-rooted values of hard work, sacrifice, and community. It’s not just a piece of stone or metal; it symbolizes the collective memory of a town that honors its past while looking forward to its future.

Rep. Maloy also took the opportunity to recognize the members of American Legion Post 19, who have been instrumental in supporting Lehi’s veterans. “The men and women of Post 19 know what it means to serve, and they make sure that the stories of our veterans—of their courage and their sacrifices—are never forgotten,” Maloy stated.

This event was more than just a dedication; it was a reminder of the importance of preserving history and passing it on to future generations. The Lehi community, known for its strong bonds and deep respect for tradition, continues to thrive by honoring those who have paved the way.

Honoring the Families Behind the Heroes

Rep. Maloy made a special point to acknowledge not just the veterans but also their families—the ones who stayed behind, who worried, who waited, and who kept the home fires burning. Their strength and sacrifice are integral parts of the community’s story.

“Today isn’t just about the veterans—it’s also about their families,” Maloy said. “Their strength and their sacrifice are a big part of our story too, and we honor them today as well.”

A Future Built on Strong Foundations

As Lehi grows and evolves, the core of the community remains as strong as ever. The dedication of this historical marker serves as a powerful reminder of the values that continue to guide the town. It’s a commitment to remember the sacrifices that have made Lehi what it is today and to ensure that these values are passed on to future generations.

In closing, Rep. Maloy expressed his gratitude to everyone who made the event possible and encouraged the community to continue supporting these efforts. “As we place this marker, let’s commit to keeping those values alive, to remembering the sacrifices that made this community great, and to building a future that would make our ancestors proud.”​