Community Honors Maj. Brent Taylor on Anniversary of His Death

NORTH OGDEN, Utah – On the one year anniversary of Major Brent Taylor’s death, a community gathered to remember him.

The 39-year-old former mayor was killed on Nov. 3, 2018 in Afghanistan, while serving with the Utah National Guard.

Sunday night’s ceremony was not only a time to remember Taylor’s sacrifice, but also the sacrifice given by all servicemen and women.

“Personally for me it’s my dad and my two brothers and my two brother-in-laws,” said MaryEllen Thompson.

Thompson got emotional, as she looked at the five flags standing tall, one for each family member who served in the military.

A “Field of Honor” was erected in Barker Park, displaying 320 flags in honor of current and former members of the military, all with ties to North Ogden and surrounding communities.

“I’m proud of the heritage of patriotism, love of country and doing the right thing for the right reason,” said Thompson.

Patriotism was a theme that echoed throughout the night, a night where a community gathered to celebrate the legacy of their former mayor. But as his wife Jennie Taylor said, it was so much more than that.

“You look at that field and think, that’s 300 plus families represented defending the red, white and blue,” said Taylor. “That makes me proud to be an American but also proud to be a member of this community.”

With Veterans Day just a week away, it was a night to say thank you. Thank you to Major Taylor and thank you to all who sacrifice.

“The thought came to me a few months ago that it’s not just those who die for us that are the heroes, but those who are willing to die for us everyday,” said Taylor. “Every man or woman who puts on a uniform for this country, might die for me today.”

The flags were all set up by the organization Follow the Flag. They are celebrating flag week this week, and tonight’s event was one of several ways they’re honoring those who served and continue to serve