Utah State University Eastern News Release

A long-forgotten tribute has found its way back to the heart of Utah State University Eastern’s Price campus — a powerful reminder of the students who once walked its halls, only to sacrifice their lives in service during World War II.

Recently rediscovered during an office move, the Carbon College WWII Memorial Roll, a  wood and bronze plaque engraved with the names of 39 fallen students, has been restored to prominence after decades in storage. Its reemergence has sparked a renewed effort to remember and honor these young lives lost to war.

The plaque, over five feet wide and beautifully cast in bronze, was tucked away in a closet, unnoticed for years. That changed when a campus staff member reached out to Aimee Lauritsen, who manages USU Eastern’s Special Collections & Archives.

“I received a phone call from administration letting me know it had turned up,” said Lauritsen. “When I realized what it was, I was thrilled. I’m always looking for items that help preserve our campus’s history.”

Having grown up around the campus, Lauritsen vaguely remembered large plaques once displayed in the old Alumni Room of the former SAC building. Still, the discovery came as a surprise. “The plaque was in remarkably good shape,” she said. “There was only a light scratch, and the wire used for hanging had weakened with time, but we replaced it right away so it could return to a place of honor.”

The plaque lists 39 names — students of Carbon High School and Carbon College — who served in World War II and never returned home. “Many died in action, while others were lost to illness or training accidents,” said Lauritsen. “They were deeply connected to this campus and community.”

Determined to tell their stories, Lauritsen conducted extensive research using the National Archives, Find A Grave, and local newspapers. Each name on the plaque is now accompanied by a photograph, labeled with the individual’s military branch and information about their service and sacrifice. “I wanted to put a face to every name. There’s still more to uncover, but the process has been incredibly meaningful,” she said.

Carbon College opened its doors in 1939, just before the United States entered WWII. By 1943, many students had already enlisted. A 1945 yearbook even includes a dedication to those serving in the armed forces, underscoring the impact of their absence.

“They weren’t just names on a list — they were classmates, friends, and sons of this community,” Lauritsen reflected. “This plaque brings them back into our collective memory.”

On May 14 from 1–3 p.m., the public is invited to an open house at the Library & Learning Commons, where the plaque will be formally reintroduced. The event will take place in Room 108, home to the Special Collections & Archives. Visitors can view the memorial, explore displays on campus history, and enjoy light refreshments.

The plaque’s new home was carefully chosen. “We wanted a space where people could come and reflect — but also where the plaque would be protected for future generations,” said Lauritsen.

For Lauritsen, the work has been as personal as it is professional. “I have family who served in the World Wars, and their stories have been passed down through generations,” she said. “Working on this project reminded me how important it is to preserve these stories — not just for my family, but for our community, too.”

She was quick to acknowledge the team effort behind the project. “From the staff who found the plaque to the facilities workers who mounted it, to colleagues and supervisors who supported it — it’s been a true collaboration. It’s heartening to see how much people care.”

As the memorial finds its place again at the heart of campus life, it sends a powerful message: every name has a story.

“Everyone’s life is different. Every generation faces challenges,” said Lauritsen. “This memorial reminds us of sacrifice, of community, and of the importance of remembering.”

The university invites community members to share any additional stories, photos, or memories of the 39 individuals named on the plaque. In doing so, USU Eastern ensures these fallen students — once full of hope, promise, and ambition — are never forgotten.