Cuts ribbon on veteran memorial in Billings

Billings, MT – Governor Greg Gianforte on Nov 11th, cut the ribbon on a new veteran memorial in Billings to honor 49 Montanans who died in the line of duty during tours in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Addressing veterans, their families, and community members, the governor recognized Veterans Day and the importance of the memorial during a ceremony held at Dehler Park in Billings.

“No one better embodies our Montana values and commitment to service than veterans – it’s because of heroes like them that we live in the greatest country on Earth,” Gov. Gianforte said. “This Veterans Day, it’s great to join Hoodies for Heroes to recognize this memorial as a lasting addition to the Billings community so that we may never forget our fallen heroes.”

What began as just an idea for Rick Baker, founder of the nonprofit organization Hoodies for Heroes, the group celebrated the completion of the memorial made of concrete and metal design that showcases the names of 49 Montanans who made the ultimate sacrifice.

In May, Hoodies for Heroes broke ground on the project and set out with the goal to complete the memorial by Veterans Day of the same year. During the ceremony, Baker and the Hoodies for Heroes Chairman Ken Callahan recognized the dozens of community members and businesses that supported the goal.

“Two years ago today, we had our first official Hoodies for Heroes event at Texas Roadhouse. This project is about our teamwork and the bond we put together – the team that was able to put this together in six months,” Callahan said before listing numerous local, state, and federal partners.

By Memorial Day, the organization is looking to fulfil the remainder of its fundraising goal to install additional infrastructure such as lights, and an interactive map to showcase hometowns of the fallen Montana heroes.

Montanans interested in learning more about Hoodies for Heroes, the memorial, and how to donate, see here.