SALT LAKE CITY — In honor of Veterans Day, Hill Air Force Base and the Utah Jazz participated in the league-wide NBA/Department of Defense “Commitment to Service” campaign, featuring hands-on community service and in-arena activities to support and recognize active and retired servicemen, servicewomen and families. 

On Nov. 6, Jazz players and front office personnel, and Orbital ATK executives worked side-by-side with local military members at the Utah Food Bank, sorting food, packing backpacks with nutritious items, and working with children from the Sorenson Multi-Cultural Center in the Kids Café. 

A couple of players also made a special visit to the VA Medical Center in Salt Lake City.

This is the second year Hill Air Force Base has participated in the Commitment to Service event with the Utah Jazz. Last year, Airmen and players visited the George E. Wahlen Veterans Affairs Medical Center to refurbish the hospital courtyard with new landscaping bark, replace old lighting, serve a meal at the nearby Fisher House, hang Christmas lights in trees and visit with hospitalized veterans.

“We’re excited to partner with the Utah Jazz again to show our Commitment to Service,” said Col. Ron Jolly 75th Air Base Wing and installation commander at Hill Air Force Base. “When joining the military, every service member raises his or her hand and pledges to serve. This project is a tangible way we can demonstrate ‘service before self’ to the Utah community, which has always been so supportive of our service members.”

“We are proud to again participate in Hoops for Troops week,” said Utah Jazz President Randy Rigby. “Working alongside military members in ‘Commitment to Service’ is just one way we are able to give back to our local community and show our support of the brave men and women who serve our country.