Governor Gianforte Honors Missoula Veteran

First ceremony for one of the 2023 Governor’s Veteran’s Commendation recipients

• March 06 2024

MISSOULA, Mont. – Governor Greg Gianforte today recognized Staff Sergeant John Zeitz with the 2023 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation Award.

"I am honored to pay tribute to the brave veterans and their families who have made immense sacrifices to safeguard our way of life and protect our freedoms,” Gov. Gianforte said. “It is heartwarming to witness the unwavering commitment of these selfless individuals who continue to serve their communities even after their time in the military.”

Gov. Gianforte and First Lady Gianforte honoring John Zeitz in Missoula

Zeitz served in the U.S. Army and, upon retiring, began volunteering at the Western Montana State Veterans Cemetery in Missoula where he has dedicated over 700 hours to help the two full-time employees manage the 23-acre facility.

Honoring Zeitz during a ceremony at the cemetery, the State Veteran Cemetery Program Bureau Chief shared the cemetery “would not be able to uphold the National Cemetery Administration's strict guidelines without the efforts of Mr. Zeitz through our volunteer program.”

The Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation recognizes outstanding Montana veterans who have selflessly served our country in uniform and made a positive impact in their community. Thirty-one veterans received the award in 2021 and fifty-one veterans received the award in 2022.

Thirty-nine recipients of the 2023 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation will be honored this year and will receive a special commemorative flag flown over the Montana State Capitol in their honor.

More information about the Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation may be found at recognizeveterans.mt.gov.