Governor Gianforte Presents State’s Highest Veteran Honors

Recognizes Montana Governor's Veteran Commendation award recipients

Governor's Office

COLUMBUS, Mont. - Governor Greg Gianforte this week recognized several Montana veterans with the 2024 Montana Governor's Veteran Commendation during ceremonies held in Stillwater, Park, and Gallatin counties.

"Montana veterans are the backbone of our communities," Gov. Gianforte said. "Their courage in uniform is matched only by their commitment to their neighbors, schools, and towns. It's a privilege to honor those who have served with distinction and continue to make Montana stronger."

Gov. and First Lady Gianforte honoring Larry Tipton (left) and Michael Alexander (middle right) with the Montana Governor's Veteran Commendation

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.

In Stillwater County, the governor recognized two veterans during a ceremony held with community members on Main Street in Columbus. Recognizing Hospital Corpsman Third Class Larry Tipton, Gov. Gianforte highlighted the veteran for his service in the U.S. Navy during Vietnam and Okinawa. Tipton has continued serving Montana as Commander of the American Legion Stillwater Post #34 and Executive Director of the Pacific Northwest Shrine Association.

Honoring the second veteran, Sergeant Michael Alexander, the governor recognized Alexander's service in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and his honors including the Vietnam Service Medal. In his community, Alexander has been involved with the local American Legion post for over 50 years, serving as commander and in other leadership roles.

In Park County, the governor recognized two veterans. Sergeant Theresa Watts, a Montana Army National Guard veteran, was awarded the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, and Global War on Terrorism Service Medal during her military service. Watts continues to serve as a second-grade teacher at Shields Valley Elementary School, fostering a patriotic environment, organizing veterans' events, and mentoring students. She was recognized as Montana Teacher of the Year in 2022 and remains active in the Legion, VFW Honor Guard, and Wounded Warrior Project.

The governor also recognized Captain Eric Bradley, a U.S. Army veteran who began his career as a Private in 1989 and rose to Captain, serving as a Scout Observer, Rifle Company Executive Officer in Iraq, and later as a Special Forces officer deploying to Afghanistan four times. He received three Bronze Star Medals, three Meritorious Service Medals, the Joint Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and the Combat Infantryman Badge.

Wrapping up in Gallatin County, the governor honored Master Sergeant Randy Kemp who served 25 years in the U.S. Army. Kemp's leadership strengthened Gallatin American Legion Post 14, revived the Memorial Day parade, and helped address Bozeman's affordable housing challenges.

Sergeant Len Albright, a Vietnam veteran, was recognized for his decades of service to fellow veterans. As Post Commander of American Legion Gallatin Post 14, Albright helped install Montana's first Gold Star Family Monument, organized Memorial Day ceremonies, and expanded youth programs like American Legion baseball.

Corporal Sherman Veltkamp, who served in the U.S. Army, dedicated over 50 years as a CPA and civic leader while helping rebuild Post 14. Veltkamp's leadership and commitment strengthened the local veteran community and supported countless Montanans through his professional and volunteer efforts.

"These veterans show us that service doesn't end when you take off the uniform," Gov. Gianforte said. "They continue to build stronger communities, mentor young people, and honor the legacy of all who served before them."

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.

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