Sept. 11 – Gov. Greg Gianforte honored three local veterans for their service Wednesday during a Patriot Day ceremony in downtown Kalispell marking the 23rd anniversary of 9/11.
Each year, the Governor recognizes Montana veterans for their dedication to service, both in and out of uniform. This year, 39 veterans were chosen to be recognized, including three Flathead Valley residents.
While the morning was meant to commemorate the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, Gianforte said it was also a time to recognize the people who continue to serve in the wake of the tragedy.
“The people we honor put themselves in harm’s way to protect the freedoms that were so gravely threatened that day,” Gianforte said after the ceremony.
Captain Lori Anne Mathieu received the first honor. With a 32-year career in the Coast Guard, Mathieu has received multiple awards and currently serves as the Coast Guard liaison to the Department of Defense’s Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office. She was nominated by her husband.
Gianforte recognized her as the only junior officer and the first woman in the Coast Guard to lead the Department of Defense’s Joint Service Military Entrance Processing Station.
“I am so happy to be able to work in this community as a retiree,” said Mathieu.
The governor also honored Capt. Wayne Sand, who served as a pilot in the Navy. His son is also a retired Navy pilot. Gianforte also highlighted his time in aviation education at the University of Kansas, Naval Academy and the University of Wyoming, and his work as a volunteer with several aviation safety organizations.
“The idea of 9/11, it’s so big in our country,” Sand said. “It’s fueled so many things since then, it’s just very humbling to be recognized today.”
Cpl. Dustin Anderson was the third recipient for his service in the Marines. He served overseas during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom 5 and 7. Anderson is also the recipient of a Purple Medal.
He made sure to thank the ‘buddies’ who didn’t return with him when he took the stage.
“No one embodies our Montana values and commitment to service better than our veterans,” Gianforte said. “As veterans, you are part of the fabric of our state and our communities.
Speaking at the 23rd anniversary of 9/11, Gianforte told attendees it was a day to reflect on the values that unite Americans: dignity, unity, compassion and courage.
“As we continue to remember and honor those taken too soon, let us also stand up for the lives worthy of their memory,” Gianforte said. “Let us be a light in the darkness. Show compassion to those around us, and remain steadfast in our commitment to the ideals of freedom, justice and peace. May we never forget.”
The governor ordered all flags in Montana to be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset and asked all Montanans to observe a moment of silence beginning at 6:46 a.m.
Each year, the governor travels across the state to honor military personnel as part of his annual Veterans Commendation. Requirements for participation include living in Montana, serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, and serving in his or her community after retirement.
Nominations can be made today at recognizeveterans.mt.gov for the 2025 nomination round. The deadline is October 21.
Reporter Kate Heston can be reached at kheston@dailyinterlake.com or 758-4459.
Gov. Greg Gianforte presents Wayne Sand with the 2023 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation during a 9/11 Remembrance Day ceremony at Depot Park in Kalispell on Wednesday, Sept. 11. The award recognizes exceptional Montana veterans who selflessly served their country in uniform and made a positive impact on their communities. (Casey Kreider/Daily Inter Lake)
Casey Kreider
Gov. Greg Gianforte addresses the crowd during a 9/11 Remembrance Day ceremony at Depot Park in Kalispell on Wednesday, Sept. 11. (Casey Kreider/Daily Inter Lake)
Casey Kreider
