State of Montana Newsroom
Governor Gianforte Honors Veterans in Billings and Miles City
Recognizes veteran commendation recipients, attends VFW annual convention
MILES CITY, Mont. – Governor Greg Gianforte this week continued his 56 County Tour, honoring veterans in Yellowstone and Custer counties.
“As I travel the state for my 56 County Tour, I have the honor of recognizing a few of our many Montana veterans who served our country and came home to continue their service to our communities,” Gov. Gianforte said. “It’s the privilege of every American to thank veterans and their families for the sacrifice, especially in this year of the 250th anniversary of our great country.”
Gov. Gianforte speaking at the Montana State VFW’s 104th Annual Convention in Miles City
During a visit to Yellowstone County, Gov. Gianforte recognized two veterans with the 2025 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation at a ceremony held in Billings.
At the American Legion, the governor recognized Master Sergeant Susan Davidson for her 30 years of service in the United States Navy, U.S. Army Reserves, and U.S. Army and her commitment to her community, volunteering with the American Legion, Montana Honor Flight, and other veteran support organizations across the state.
Gov. Gianforte also honored Corporal Owen Wood for his service in the United States Marine Corps. Corporal Wood is a decorated veteran, having served two tours in Operation Iraqi Freedom and earning the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal with two bronze service stars, and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, among others. After his service, Wood continues to support his community by mentoring young people, serving as a foster parent, and volunteering in his church.
“The strength of Montana comes from people who put service before self,” Gov. Gianforte continued. “Susan and Owen have dedicated their lives to helping others, both during their military careers and after returning home. Their commitment to serving their fellow veterans, neighbors, and communities reflects the very best of Montana.”
Today, in Custer County, the governor addressed attendees at the Montana State VFW’s 104th Annual Convention in Miles City.
“Since entering public service, I’ve visited every corner of Montana, and no matter where I go, veterans are among the first people I meet – they’re volunteering at the food bank, helping organize community events, mentoring young people, or looking out for a fellow veteran who needs a hand,” Gov. Gianforte said.
He continued, “That spirit of service is one of the reasons Montana is the greatest state in the greatest country on Earth. It’s also why organizations like the Veterans of Foreign Wars remain so important. These posts serve as gathering places, sources of support, and pillars of communities large and small while preserving the memory of those who served before us and helping the next generation understand that our freedoms aren’t free.”
Supporting Montana veterans is a top priority for Gov. Gianforte. Since taking office, he has recognized more than 170 Montana veterans with the Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation. Montana is home to one of the highest veteran populations per capita in the nation, with nearly one in 13 Montanans having served in uniform.
###