Gov. Greg Gianforte recognized twelve Montana veterans with the 2025 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation during ceremonies held in Cascade, Fergus and Musselshell counties as part of his sixth annual 56 County Tour.
“Montana veterans represent the very best of our state,” Gianforte said. “Their courage and sacrifice have defended our freedoms, and their continued service strengthens our communities. It is an honor to recognize these outstanding veterans and thank them for all they have done for our state and nation.”
In Cascade County, the governor recognized six veterans. U.S. Army veteran Staff Sergeant Kenneth Broeder of Great Falls served two tours in Vietnam, earning the Bronze Star with Valor Device, the Air Medal and the Army Commendation Medal with “V” device, among other honors. After his service he has volunteered with the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion. U.S. Army veteran Warrant Officer Bernard “Bernie” Poirier also served in Vietnam and later became a well-known Great Falls auctioneer while remaining active with the Disabled American Veterans and VFW. U.S. Air Force veteran Master Sergeant Glenn Hageman of Great Falls served 22 years, including tours in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam era, and has since volunteered extensively with the VFW, DAV and Salvation Army. U.S. Army veteran Private First Class Frederick “Rick” Smyth of Great Falls served during the Korean War era and has dedicated decades to veterans advocacy and community service. U.S. Navy veteran Petty Officer First Class Virgil Cook of Great Falls served 20 years during the Cold War era and has volunteered with the VFW and American Legion since returning home. U.S. Marine Corps veteran Corporal Daniel Pickett of Great Falls served in the early 1970s and remains active in his church and veterans organizations.
In Fergus County, the governor honored four veterans. U.S. Army veteran Staff Sergeant Keith Shelhamer of Lewistown served in the Army for 21 years, including a tour in Vietnam, and earned the Bronze Star. He has been active with the VFW and American Legion in Lewistown since his return. U.S. Air Force veteran Master Sergeant Gary Anderson of Lewistown served 22 years, including assignments during the Cold War, and has volunteered with the local VFW post and Habitat for Humanity. U.S. Army veteran Specialist Fourth Class Richard Harker of Lewistown served during the Vietnam era and has remained committed to veterans service and community organizations. U.S. Marine Corps veteran Corporal David Hislop of Lewistown served in the 1960s and has been a longtime supporter of local veterans causes.
In Musselshell County, the governor and First Lady Susan Gianforte honored two veterans at a ceremony at the Musselshell County Veterans War Memorial in Roundup. Billy Don Turner, a former commander of Musselshell Valley VFW Post 4925, and Ron Carson, the post’s current commander, each received the commendation for their years of service in uniform and their continued dedication to their community and fellow veterans.
Since taking office, Gianforte has recognized more than 180 Montana veterans with the Governor’s Veteran Commendation. Montana has one of the highest veteran populations per capita in the nation, with nearly one in 13 residents having served in uniform.
