Governor Gianforte Honors U.S. Navy Veteran

39 recipients of the 2023 Veteran Commendation to be recognized this year

• March 14 2024

HAMILTON, Mont. – Governor Greg Gianforte on Tuesday recognized Seaman Richard Hardy with the 2023 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation Award in Hamilton.

"It’s an honor to pay tribute to our nation’s heroes and their families who have made immense sacrifices to safeguard our way of life and protect our freedoms,” Gov. Gianforte said. “The least we could do is recognize the unwavering commitment of these selfless individuals who continue to serve their communities even after their time in the military.”

Gov. Gianforte honoring U.S. Navy veteran Richard Hardy and wife Sally in Hamilton

During the Vietnam War, Hardy served in the U.S. Navy as a coxswain on the USS Midway and the USS Alamo. He also operated minesweeper boats on the Saigon River and landing craft boats that transported service members, ammunition, and military vehicles.

Following his honorable discharge from the U.S. Navy, Hardy devoted himself to serving his community as a volunteer emergency medical technician (EMT) and fireman. He rose through the ranks to become a lieutenant fireman and trained other firefighters, instructing them on CPR techniques to ensure the safety and well-being of those around him.

After moving to Montana, Hardy continued his public service by becoming a volunteer fire chief and EMT in Corvallis. Later, he worked as a sergeant and a reserve deputy at the Ravalli County Sheriff's Office. He and his wife Sally now reside in Stevensville.

The Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation recognizes outstanding Montana veterans like Richard who have selflessly served our country in uniform and made a positive impact in their community. 31 veterans received the award in 2021 and 51 veterans received the award in 2022.

39 recipients of the 2023 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation will be honored this year with an award ceremony and receive a special commemorative flag flown over the Montana State Capitol in their honor. 

More information about the Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation, including how to nominate a veteran, may be found at recognizeveterans.mt.gov.

###