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Each year the Layton City Parks and Recreation Department coordinates with many different groups and individuals who serve as volunteers in a variety of capacities within the Department.  From youth coaches, citizen committee members, specialized service projects, special events, and many more; these volunteers are greatly appreciated.  Many of the programs ran through the Parks and Recreation Department would not be possible without these individuals who are willing to contribute their time, energy, and special skill-sets.  Each winter the Parks and Recreation Department gives special recognition to an individual or organization for their outstanding volunteer service.  This year, the Layton City Parks and Recreation Department would like to honor department volunteer Dennis Howland as the 2022 Volunteer of the Year. 

Mr. Howland has volunteered with the Parks and Recreation Department since 2017, when he served as President of the Vietnam Veterans of America – Chapter 1079, which encompasses the greater Layton area.  Mr. Howland then went on to serve as the National Director At Large for the Vietnam Veterans of America – Utah, and continues to serve in this role. During his time in these roles, Mr. Howland has worked closely with Layton City and the Parks and Recreation Department to see a lifelong promise fulfilled in the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall Replica that is now in Layton Commons Park. Mr. Howland made a promise to see a replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall built in Utah to honor all those that served and gave their lives during the Vietnam War. He worked closely with the City to find a place for the replica wall and worked tirelessly within his role with the Vietnam Veterans of America to help raise funds for the construction of the monument. Mr. Howland continues to work toward the further development of the area around the replica wall, including his assistance for the War Dog Memorial, the Vietnam Memory Plaque and Battle Cross monument, and the future Freedom’s Memorial Plaza. 

Mr. Howland also worked to bring the Veterans Parade to Layton City in 2017. This parade has been a welcome addition to the Layton City Veterans Day program and he continues to coordinate the parade each year since its inclusion in 2017. Mr. Howland has also helped with the Layton City Veterans Honors Ceremony program either through providing speakers, honor guards, or other assistance with the ceremony each year.

In addition to his volunteer services to the Parks and Recreation Department and Vietnam Veterans of America, Mr. Howland maintains a full-time workload that includes many visits to the Utah State Capital and Washington D.C. to advocate on Vietnam Veterans behalf, throughout the year. Mr. Howland lives in Ogden with his wife, Sherry. He is a truly dedicated individual with a heart of gold and a passion for honoring our Veterans. Layton City would like to thank Mr. Howland for the hard work he has given to the local community, veterans, and the Parks and Recreation Department.