Gov. Greg Gianforte last week presented the 2023 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation to Army veteran Mahlon ‘Paul’ Manson at the Military Veterans Memorial on Railroad Avenue in Alberton.

The award recognizes outstanding Montana veterans who have selflessly served in uniform and made a positive impact in their community. Thirty-one veterans received the award in 2021, 51 in 2022 and 39 veterans in 2023. 

How did Manson find out that he had been selected for the award? 

“I don’t know. I think somebody sent me an email,” he said with a smile. 

His military service started in 1967 when he graduated from high school. 

“A trip to the tropics, Vietnam, followed basic training where I was a combat engineer part of the 20th Engineer Brigade, 168th Engineer Battalion (cbt)," he said. "We were under the operational control of the 1st Infantry Division. It was at Loc Ninh that I was awarded the Bronze Star for Valor and Purple Heart. We were assisting [Military Assistance Command, Vientam] and Special Forces with hardening their camps, mines, explosives and fortifications.” 

After an honorable discharge and readjusting to civilian life, Manson became a "weekend warrior."  

“I’d been out for a while and some guy came around and said, ‘Why don’t you join the National Guard? We’re having steak this weekend.' So I went out and joined. This was with the unit in Deer Lodge, Montana and between the Guard and Reserves, I was in about 26 years, so I’m retired. I have the pension and also the health insurance, which is more important.”

“We have a debt to our veterans that we can never repay,” said Gianforte, who established the Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation. “Not only have our veterans stepped up to serve their country but many of them when they returned home continue to serve in their communities. And they really exemplify service and being a good neighbor. So, this program was designed to really honor that spirit of service. We’ve found this in every community across the state and that’s why it was so great to honor Paul today and it’s a way to say thank you to everyone who has worn the uniform of this country.”

The community service Manson has been involved includes being on the school board in Alberton. He is also board member and chair of the Frenchtown Fire District, Boy Scout leader, T-ball coach, former member of Mineral County LEPC/DES, volunteer firefighter and first responder-medical.  

“I am currently a member of Team Rubicon Humanity relief group led by veterans. And lately a member of the Red Cross learning shelter management,” he said. 

Ron Forest drove from Saltese to Alberton to attend the ceremony. 

“I try to stay in touch with the veterans in our community, especially the Vietnam vets. This is an example of how we are still helpful in our community,” said Forest, who served as a Navy Seabee in Vienam. 

Scott Burrows, adjutant of American Legion Post 13 in St. Regis, said he didn’t know Paul, but was proud of what he has done for the county and Alberton with his volunteerism.   

Mineral County Disabled American Veterans drivers Mary Jo Berry, Ginny Tubbs and Glenn Koepke brought the vehicles to remind, or enlighten, veterans and their families of the service they offer: driving vets to their Department of Veterans Affairs health care appointments free of charge. 

“I came to meet people and to thank Mr. Manson for his service as I’m new and want to get to know my neighbors,” said Monte Silk, Alberton School superintendent. 

Rep. Denley Loge, a Republican from St. Regis, has been a veterans' advocate and knew Manson they worked together many years ago. 

“Paul is a good man and I’m very happy as he deserves this recognition,” Loge said. 

Loge and Manson worked at St. Regis, building the interstate through the canyon along the St. Regis River and at the Duck Lake Road near Browning. Milo McLeod, a friend of Manson's from their time in the Montana Army National Guard said Manson has earned the spotlight. 

“I was very pleased to hear that Paul was getting the award and wouldn't want to miss it for the world," he said. 

McLeod remembers his service with Manson fondly as well as the impact that Manson had on others.

“He knew his people. He knew their strengths and he knew their shortcomings which made him a top-notch leader."

In addition to the award, Gianforte also gave Manson an American flag that flew over the Capitol building. 

"I'm surprised -- I never thought the governor would come to visit me,” said Manson. 

He was appreciative of all those who gathered to celebrate him. 

"I try to fly under the radar," Manson said. "I know it doesn't sound or look that way with today’s crowd, but I tried to do that.”

Masons’ wife, Fran, son Mahlon Patrick and daughter Michelle along with his grandchildren were in attendance of the ceremony.

    Dignitaries, family and friends of Mahlon ‘Paul’ Manson were in attendance last week for his acceptance of the Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation in Alberton. From left to right, state Rep. Denley Loge, Paul Manson, Gov. Greg Gianforte, Paul’s wife Fran and his son Mahlon Patrick along with Alberton School Superintendent Monte Silk. (Monte Turner/Mineral Independent)