Thousands of people gathered at Southern Utah University’s Eccles Coliseum on Thursday, July 23, to celebrate Utah’s pioneer heritage.
The free program began with a special tribute to Army 1st Lt. Tyler James Feehan, 25, who was killed in an Iranian missile attack on July 18 in Jordan. Feehan was just weeks away from finishing his MBA degree at SUU. His diploma will be awarded posthumously, university officials said.
Feehan, who was posthumously promoted to the rank of captain, was also a graduate of SUU’s Army ROTC program and served with the Utah Army National Guard’s 2nd Battalion, 222nd Field Artillery.
Cast members carried an array of historical U.S. flags on stage prior to the national anthem at the start of "The Pioneer Legacy Celebration."
A moment of silence was then observed as dozens of flag bearers, along with honor/color guard members from American Legion Post 74, the 222nd Army National Guard and the SUU ROTC stood on stage.
“He gave his life in service to our country,” event announcer Fred Walker said of Feehan. “He was one of our own, a son, a friend, a leader and a patriot whose sacrifice will never be forgotten. Tonight we honor Lt. Feehan, along with every brave man and woman who has laid down their life in defense of freedom throughout our nation's history.”
“It was an honor to present the colors and to pay honors to an American hero. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of our fallen.”

Scotty Harville-Post Adjutant/Sergeant At Arms
Post 74/Squadron 74
Cedar City
Department of Utah