Gov. Greg Gianforte honored three local veterans for their service at a Patriot Day ceremony Wednesday in downtown Kalispell that marked the 23rd anniversary of 9/11.

Each year, the governor acknowledges Montana veterans for their commitment to service, both in uniform and out of it. This year, 39 veterans were chosen to be recognized, including three Flathead Valley residents. 

While the morning was a time to reflect on the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, Gianforte said it was also a time to recognize the people who continue to serve after the tragedy.  

“The individuals we honor have put themselves in harms ways to protect the freedoms that were so egregiously attacked 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 received multiple awards and is currently 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 command the Department of Defense Joint Service Military Entrance Processing Station. 

“I’m so thrilled to be a retiree in this community,” Mathieu said.   

The governor also honored Capt. Wayne Sand, who served in the Navy as a pilot. His son is a retired Navy pilot as well. Gianforte also highlighted his tenure with 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 driven so many things since, it's just very humbling to be recognized today." 

Cpl. Dustin Anderson was the third recipient for his service in the Marines. He spent time 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 acknowledge the “buddies” who didn’t come back with him as he took the stage.   

“Nobody 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. 

In speaking about the 23rd anniversary of 9/11, Gianforte told the crowd that it was a day to reflect on the values that bind Americans: dignity, unity, compassion and courage.   

“As we continue to remember and honor those who were taken too soon, let us also commit to the living lives that are worthy of their memory,” Gianforte said. “Let us be a light in the darkness. Showing compassion to those around us and standing firm in our dedication to the ideals of freedom, justice and peace. May we never forget.” 

The governor had ordered all flags in Montana to be flown at half-staff from sunrise until sunset and asked all Montanans to observe a moment of silence beginning at 6:46 a.m. 

Each year, the governor travels the state to recognize servicemen and women as part of his annual Veteran Commendation. Eligibility requirements include living in Montana, serving in the U.S. armed forces and after retirement, demonstrating service to his or her community.  

Nominations can be made today at recognizeveterans.mt.gov for the 2025 round of nominees. The deadline is Oct. 21. 

Reporter Kate Heston can be reached at kheston@dailyinterlake.com or 758-4459.

    Gov. Greg Gianforte awards 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 outstanding Montana veterans who have selflessly served their country in uniform and made a positive impact in their community. (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