The Briefing: Safe in the Guard

Utah has an engaging military community with deep roots and branches that reach far and wide. Our myriad of stories are told in our schools, libraries, museums, activities and homes. Every now and then VALOR comes across interesting “bits and pieces” that we want to share with our readers.

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SafeUTNG app sees success

The app, known as SafeUTNG, was designed to support Utah National Guard service members and families in crisis. It’s free to download from the Android and Apple app stores, providing service members and their families with a safe, confidential platform to communicate with a crisis counselor 24/7.

“I strongly recommend each and every service member download the SafeUTNG app, whether they feel they are in a crisis or not,” said Brig. Gen. Michael J. Turley, adjutant general, Utah National Guard. “I have full faith and confidence in the behavioral health providers working behind the scenes at the University of Utah Neuropsychiatric Institute to make this app possible. We’ve seen firsthand how it can save lives.”

Using the SafeUTNG app, service members can initiate a live confidential call or chat with behavioral health providers to receive help or lifesaving tips. The app is managed 24/7 by the University Neuropsychiatric Institute in partnership with the UTNG. Depending on the severity of the situation, UNI can activate local emergency response. Tips not deemed emergencies will be forwarded to privileged UTNG behavioral health providers. In case of emergency or active crime, the app encourages users to call 911. (Note: It is a crime to send false reports). This app serves as another tool to enable soldiers and airmen to help others or find help for themselves.

Every service member who downloads the SafeUTNG app will carry a virtual lifeline in their pocket.

—BY SGT. NATHANIEL FREE, UTAH NATIONAL GUARD

The SafeUTNG app can be download via Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com. universityofutahhealth.safeutng&hl=en_US or Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/safeutng/ id1488643677

NOTE: With COVID-19 pandemic social distancing guidelines in effect, please verify event status. 07/04

BY THE DAWN'S EARLY LIGHT FLAG CEREMONY

During the early morning hours of Independence Day, witness the unfurling of the "new" American Flag. Ceremony includes cannon fire, music, planes, doves and more. Grove Creek Trail, Pleasant Grove, 7:30 a.m. Saturday. facebook.

com/followtheflag1

07/02-04

FREEDOM VEHICLES MILITARY OUTPOST

Fun interactive displays with living history groups, military enthusiasts, military vehicles from WWI, WWII, Korean War, Vietnam War, Cold War and Gulf War. SCERA Park, 600 South State, Orem, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. facebook.com/

freedomvehiclesassociation

08/08

PLANES & HORSEPOWER CAR SHOW

Celebrate in style at the 6th annual car and plane show. PLUS: Hangar dance with live big band music, 6-10 p.m. Russ McDonald Air Field, 1980 Hangar 38-D, Airport Rd., Heber. 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. facebook.

com/pg/cafutahwing

08/11

UTAH MILITARY APPRECIATION DAY

Utah state parks offer free dayuse entrance for active military, veterans and their family. Many parks will host events to celebrate like, 5K races, canoe rentals, disc golf tournaments, and more. For a list of events, visit stateparks.utah.gov