Weekend events included tours of Hill Air Force Base and Northrop Grumman’s Sentinel program, as well as discussions with community leaders and officials
Ogden, UT – U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) spent the weekend in northern Utah engaging with military leaders, industry executives, and local officials to highlight the state’s role in national defense and build collaborative relationships with key Utah stakeholders. With a demanding vote schedule in Washington, D.C. and limited opportunity to be in Utah, Curtis’ visit underscores his commitment to understanding and supporting local communities.
Senator Curtis’ trip included briefings at Hill Air Force Base, a tour of Northrop Grumman’s Sentinel program in Roy, a visit to Weber State University’s Noorda Engineering Building, meetings with Weber and Davis County officials, a visit to the VA Medical Center in Salt Lake City, and the acceptance of the 2025 Sportsman’s Conservation Award from the Mule Deer Foundation. More information on each event can be found below.
Hill Air Force Base
As Utah’s largest military installation and a hub for advanced aircraft engineering and logistics, Hill Air Force Base plays a critical role in maintaining and modernizing the nation’s airpower. During his visit of the base, Senator Curtis received briefings on the Ogden Air Logistics Complex, Minuteman III and Sentinel Intercontinental Ballistic Missile systems, 75th Air Base Wing, and 388th and 419th Fighter Wings.
“Hill Air Force Base is a cornerstone of our national defense, playing a vital role in sustaining the readiness of our Armed Forces and strengthening our strategic deterrence capabilities,” said Senator Curtis. “I was honored to meet with the Airmen and civilian personnel who make this mission possible. Their expertise in engineering and logistics management is ensuring that some of our nation’s most advanced military assets—like the F-35 Lightning II, F-16 Fighting Falcon, Minuteman III and Sentinel—remain cutting-edge, operational, and mission-ready. I’m committed to ensuring Hill has the resources it needs to maintain its role in bolstering our airpower and safeguarding our national security.”
“We appreciate Senator Curtis taking the time to gain a deeper understanding of Hill AFB’s vital role in national defense,” said Col. Dan Cornelius, 75th Air Base Wing commander. “Senator Curtis’s engagement demonstrates his genuine commitment to understanding and supporting the Airmen of Hill AFB and their critical missions.”
Northrop Grumman Roy Innovation Center
Building upon discussions at Hill Air Force Base, Senator Curtis met with industry leaders at Northrop Grumman’s Roy Innovation Center to learn more about the Sentinel weapon system—a future land-based intercontinental ballistic system (ICBM) that will replace the aging Minuteman III ICBM. The Senator also received a briefing on Northrop Grumman’s presence in Utah. The company employs over 10,000 Utahns at several locations throughout the state.
“For decades, strategic deterrence has safeguarded our national security and kept adversaries in check. The Sentinel program, which will replace existing deterrence systems, is critical to ensuring our military remains prepared for future threats,” said Senator Curtis. “I appreciated a briefing from Northrop Grumman leaders in Roy, Utah, on Sentinel’s progress and the company’s major presence in our state.”
Weber State University
Curtis met with Weber State University (WSU) President Brad Mortensen, students, faculty, and staff for a tour of the campus. The Senator received a briefing on the University’s energy innovation work showcased at the Noorda Engineering, Applied Science, and Technology Building. WSU is the first school in Utah to offer an energy engineering degree.
“Weber State University is at the forefront of energy technology innovation,” said Senator Curtis. “I’m grateful to President Brad Mortensen and other university students and leaders for showing me firsthand the cutting-edge sustainability work they’re championing at the Noorda Engineering, Applied Science, and Technology Building.”
Officials in Davis and Weber Counties
Senator Curtis sat down with commissioners and other elected officials from Weber County and Davis County to discuss relevant issues for northern Utah communities—including cost of living, housing, and infrastructure development.
“Utah’s economy is growing, but challenges remain—including the rising cost of living, difficulties with transportation, and water scarcity,” said Senator Curtis. “I’m grateful to have had productive discussions with officials from Weber County and Davis County on how all levels of government can work together to tackle these priorities.”
Salt Lake City VA Medical Center
The Salt Lake City VA Medical Center provides healthcare for Veterans, trains future medical professionals, and conducts research to advance Veterans’ health outcomes. During a tour of the hospital from Angela Williams, Executive Director of the VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Senator Curtis visited with patients and staff.
“Our Veterans deserve the best care, and the staff at the Salt Lake City VA Medical Center deliver it with dedication and compassion,”said Senator Curtis. “I’m grateful to have heard from those who served and those who serve them.”
Mule Deer Foundation
At a banquet dinner during the Western Hunting and Conservation Expo at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake, Senator Curtis was recognized with the 2025 Sportsman’s Conservation Award by the Mule Deer Foundation.
“I’m grateful to have received the 2025 Sportsman’s Conservation Award,” said Senator Curtis. “Hunting and conservation face increasing challenges, but together, we will safeguard our land, traditions, and Second Amendment rights. With allies like the Mule Deer Foundation, we’re ensuring future generations can continue to enjoy and preserve our nation’s rich hunting heritage.”
Additional Reading:
Standard-Examiner: Sen. John Curtis addresses national security, Hill AFB, DOGE, Trump Cabinet picks