HELENA, MT – Governor Greg Gianforte on Oct 23rd, at the State Capitol recognized seven veterans with his 2023 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation to honor them for their service to the nation and their communities.

“Honoring our veterans is not just an act of gratitude, but a recognition of their sacrifices for the freedoms we enjoy,” Gov. Gianforte said. “Today, we honored seven veterans for their courage and service that has shaped our nation and communities. By thanking them, we reaffirm our commitment to the values they have defended.”

During a ceremony held in the Capitol Rotunda, the governor presented each veteran with a Montana State Flag flown over the State Capitol in their honor and letters thanking them for their lives of service.

The veterans honored included U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Nick Jones of Belgrade, U.S. Marine Corps Corporal Bob Chansler of Butte, U.S. Army Sergeant Bob Radcliffe of Townsend, U.S. Army Sergeant Dennis Peterson of Lincoln, U.S. Army Specialist Charles Neal of Helena, U.S. Army Specialist Mike Lowry of Helena, and U.S. Navy Radioman David McCann of Helena.

In front of family members, friends, and neighbors, each veteran was called to receive their award as the governor shared of their recognitions from military service and their involvements in the community upon returning home.

Several of the organizations the veterans are involved with include the Talons Reach Foundation, the Butte Public Works Department, the Gallatin County Search and Rescue, the U.S. Forest Service, as well as Veterans for Foreign Wars posts and American Legions across Montana.

After receiving the award, veterans joined the governor and first lady to share of their time in service and importance of supporting the veteran community.

Speaking to the group, U.S. Marine Corps veteran Nick Jones said, “Honoring veterans, in a way like this, brings communities together and brings families together to truly honor their service and sacrifices. What is most important is that we continue to give back to each other as a community of veterans and families, because the moment you feel alone is the moment you start to decay.”

To learn more about the Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation, visit www.recognizeveterans.mt.gov.