Governor Greg Gianforte recognized Sergeant Bob Longcake of Shelby with the 2024 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation, honoring both his military service during the Vietnam War and his decades of dedication to veterans and his community.
“Sergeant Longcake exemplifies the very best of Montana’s veterans,” Gianforte said. “From his courageous service in Vietnam to his tireless dedication to the veteran community, he has shown what it means to put others first and to serve with integrity and heart.”
During the Vietnam War, Longcake served in the U.S. Air Force as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal technician at Ubon Air Base in Thailand. His duties included arming and rearming F-4 Phantom aircraft for combat missions—work considered one of the most hazardous assignments of the war.
Following his military service, Longcake returned to Montana, where he became a leader in the Shelby veteran community. In 2004, he joined five other local veterans in founding the Veterans Memorial Flag project, which established a memorial to honor Montana veterans and those currently serving.
At a ceremony held at the memorial, Longcake was honored alongside family and community members. Reflecting on the project, he said the goal has always been to build something lasting. “My goal is to be sure that the flag will fly 50 years from now, and when my grandsons drive down the interstate, they can look up there and see it,” Longcake said.
As part of the Governor’s Veteran Commendation, each honoree receives a Montana state flag flown over the Capitol in their honor, along with a letter from the governor recognizing their service.
Nominations for the 2025 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation are now open through Monday, October 20, 2025. Veterans selected will be honored in ceremonies across the state next year.