Iraq war timeline — Utah involvement

At the first anniversary of the Iraq war, Utah continues to be deeply involved in the conflict.

The loss of life goes on, veteran troops are rotated home and fresh units head to the Middle East.

A glance back at the events of the war and the period leading to it shows how powerfully events in Iraq are affecting residents of the Beehive State.

2003

January

Reservists from the Hill Air Force Base 419th Fighter Wing and National Guard members leave Utah. The base's F-16 fighter jets are to patrol southern Iraq while Guard members head to training camps — usually Fort Carson, Colo. As national call-ups accelerate, Utah soldiers prepare for war.

February

The number of Utahns mobilized tops 2,000 for the first time. Utah's congressional delegation stands squarely behind the Bush administration's efforts. Salt Lake City refuses to join a group of 62 cities that pass resolutions against a war, but Springdale, Washington County, OKs such a resolution. A Utah anti-war member of the Reserves is granted a discharge.

By midmonth Utahns mobilized top 3,000. Anger at France for opposing the war boils over with vandalism of local French symbols.

March

Anti-war protesters descend on the Salt Lake City Council. Cheerleaders who oppose the war protest at the University of Utah. In the legislative session's last moments, the House passes a resolution supporting President Bush. Professors and students at Brigham Young University debate the impending war. Peace vigils are held throughout Salt Lake Valley. Protesters are arrested at the office of Rep. Jim Matheson, D-Utah, when they refuse to leave.

President Gordon B. Hinckley of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints offers words of compassion and support to the armed forces during a BYU devotional. Students at Utah Valley State College rally to support the troops. A poll finds 82 percent of Utahns believe President Bush will be able to overthrow Saddam Hussein.

When war begins on March 19, family members of Utah soldiers express pride. Tooele Army Depot ships thousands of tons of ammunition to the troops. Utah's members of Congress pray for the protection and safety of U.S. forces. Peace demonstrators in Salt Lake City hold a vigil for peace. Many Utah homes display the flag and yellow ribbons. Radio stations play patriotic songs. Some residents stock emergency supplies.