WEST JORDAN — Freedom is rolling forth and, according to Rep. Chris Cannon, R-Utah, American soldiers are the ones to thank for it.

At a "Thank a Soldier Day" event Saturday at West Jordan High School, Cannon, along with Salt Lake County Mayor Peter Corroon and Maj. Gen. Brian L. Tarbet of the Utah Army National Guard, rallied support for U.S. soldiers among members of the Utah National Guard and American military supporters.

"The military is transforming the world for people who didn't dream of it to have freedom," Cannon said while addressing democratic advancements in the Middle East.

The day, marking the second year since the United States first invaded Iraq, began with an opening flag ceremony presented by the Utah Army National Guard and the Copper Hills High School Azurettes.

"America is an idea," Cannon said. "It's an idea that's been around for a long time."

Cannon said because of brave soldiers this ideology is rolling throughout the world and driving tyrants out of power while empowering the people.

Other speakers thanking soldiers and enlisting continued support for the military included Corroon, who read a proclamation declaring March 19 as "Thank a Soldier Day" in Salt Lake County.

Corroon said citizens might not be on the front lines of combat, but they can be on the front lines of giving encouragement and hope from home and abroad.

Whitney Layne, a senior at West Jordan High School, said she hopes the state and eventually the nation will follow Salt Lake County with similar proclamations.

With the help of friends, last October students Rochelle Romero and Jared Gomez began collaborating with faculty to plan the event.

"It's a huge privilege and testament to the fact that youth are good people and make a difference," said assistant principal Michael Hughes.

Layne contributed in more ways than just behind the scenes. She sang at the rally in support of the military — the most profound way, she says, she can support the troops. The singer/songwriter was inspired by a news article about a woman's husband who was in Iraq for six months.

"I wanted to do something, and the way I knew I could was through music," Layne said.

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