State of Montana Newsroom
Governor Gianforte Honors Missoula Veteran
Seeks Nominations for 2023 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation
HELENA, Mont. – Governor Greg Gianforte this week recognized U.S. Marine Corps veteran Erick Kahila of Missoula with the 2022 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation for his service to the nation and his community.
"Veterans and their families have sacrificed so much in defense of our freedoms, and it’s thanks to them that we live in the greatest country in the world,” Gov. Gianforte said. “Many of our veterans keep the flame of service alive after their time in the military, and Erick is a true testament to that.”
Gov. Gianforte and First Lady Susan Gianforte with Erick Kahila in Missoula
Honoring Sergeant Kahila in a ceremony at David J. Thatcher VA Clinic, the governor presented him with a Montana State Flag flown over the Montana State Capitol in his honor and a letter thanking him for his life of service.
“During your service you earned many awards, including the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and two Certificate of Commendations – one with your unit and the other individually,” the governor read.
The governor also highlighted Kahila’s service to the veteran community as a case manager at the VA clinic, helping low-income veterans secure rental vouchers and offering other support services. Kahila, with a fellow veteran, also began the Veteran Suicide Awareness & Prevention (VSAP) half marathon run, walk, or RUCK event.
In September, the governor launched the 2023 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation and seeks nominations for the award.
The deadline for nominating an outstanding Montana veteran is October 21, 2023. Recipients of the Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation will be announced on Veterans Day and honored in the new year.
More information about the Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation, including how to nominate a Montana veteran, may be found at recognizeveterans.mt.gov.