State of Montana Newsroom
Governor Gianforte Honors Six Veterans in Cascade County
GREAT FALLS, Mont. – Governor Greg Gianforte today recognized six Montana veterans with the 2024 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation in Great Falls.
“Montana’s veterans embody service, sacrifice, and leadership,” Gov. Gianforte said. “These men and women defended our freedoms in uniform, and they continue to strengthen their communities every day. It was a privilege to honor them with this recognition.”
Gov. Gianforte honoring U.S. Navy veteran Jim Porter with the 2024 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation in Great Falls
The Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation recognizes veterans who have selflessly served in uniform and made positive impacts in their communities. Since 2021, more than 170 veterans have received the honor.
During a ceremony held at the Veterans Memorial, the governor honored six recipients:
- U.S. Air Force veteran Master Sergeant Daniel Parker was recognized for more than two decades of decorated service, earning the Meritorious Service Medal and Air Force Commendation Medal with Valor Device, and for continuing his service as a chaplain, mentor, and community volunteer.
- U.S. Army veteran Staff Sergeant Shannon Wilson was commended for her distinguished service from 1985 to 1992 and for her leadership as a Great Falls City Commissioner, VFW and American Legion officer, and dedicated volunteer strengthening veteran services and community programs.
- U.S. Army veteran Warrant Officer Marvin Brodock of Fort Benton was honored for his more than 20 years of decorated service as a Master Aviator, and for his continued leadership as commander of VFW Post 4047, Honor Guard leader, and devoted mentor to youth and veterans in Fort Benton.
- U.S. Navy veteran Petty Officer Second Class Jim Porter was recognized for his service during the Vietnam War and for decades of leadership in the Disabled American Veterans, VFW, the Great Falls Veterans Memorial, and numerous community and faith organizations.
- U.S. Navy veteran Machinist Mate Frank Tuss was celebrated for his Cold War service, including standing watch during the Bay of Pigs and assisting in the recovery of John Glenn’s space capsule, as well as for his ongoing leadership in the VFW and support for veterans in need.
- U.S. Army veteran Sergeant Edgar Van Vleet was commended for his service in Vietnam and for more than 40 years as Quartermaster of VFW Post 4669, alongside decades of community service with the U.S. Postal Service, the Black Eagle Water and Sewer District, and the Civic Club.
“These veterans remind us that service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off,” Gov. Gianforte added. “Whether mentoring youth, strengthening veteran service organizations, or helping neighbors in need, they continue to inspire us all.”
Each recipient received a Montana state flag flown over the Capitol in their honor and a letter from the governor recognizing their service.
Gov. Gianforte also announced nominations are open for the 2025 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation. The deadline to nominate a veteran for the 2025 award is Monday, October 20, 2025. The recipients will be announced on Veterans Day and honored in ceremonies across the state in 2026.
To learn more about the commendation and to nominate a Montana veteran, visit recognizeveterans.mt.gov.
A video recording of the ceremony can be viewed here.
###