Governor Greg Gianforte recently honored Sergeant Major Sean Gifford during a ceremony in Three Forks, presenting him with the 2023 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation.
“Giving back and serving our neighbors is integral to our identity as Montanans,” Governor Gianforte remarked. “It’s a privilege to recognize Sergeant Major Gifford for his exceptional contributions to the Three Forks community and his unwavering dedication to service, embodying the values that define our state and way of life.”
Sergeant Major Gifford, who served in the United States Army for 21 years as a Green Beret, received a Purple Heart for wounds sustained in combat. Upon returning home, he continued his service to Montana, first as a police officer, then as a Gallatin County Sheriff Deputy, and currently as the mayor of Three Forks.
During the ceremony, Governor Gianforte highlighted Gifford’s volunteer work with Warriors for Quiet Waters, a Bozeman-based nonprofit that organizes fly fishing and hunting experiences for veterans.
In recognition of his service, the Governor presented Sergeant Major Gifford with a Montana State Flag flown over the State Capitol and letters expressing gratitude for his commitment to country and community.
Expressing his gratitude for the award and acknowledging the support of his community, Gifford said, “I am deeply humbled and honored by this recognition, but the true honor for me has been the opportunity to serve and protect our country and my local community alongside some of the finest men and women I know.”
The Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation celebrates outstanding veterans who have selflessly served the nation in uniform and have positively impacted their communities. In 2021, 31 veterans received the award, followed by 51 veterans in 2022. This year, 39 recipients of the 2023 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation will be honored during an upcoming ceremony.
For more information about the Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation, visit recognizeveterans.mt.gov.