Veterans Day in Montana

Today is Veterans Day, a time to recognize and thank the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces, including the generations of Montanans who have answered the call to serve.

Montana has a particularly strong tradition of military service. According to the Montana Department of Veterans Affairs, the state is home to an estimated 85,871 veterans — about one in every 13 residents. Montana ranks third in the nation for veterans per capita.

That tradition was especially evident during World War One. Nearly 40,000 Montanans enlisted or were drafted, representing about 10 percent of the state's population at the time. The Montana Historical Society says Montana made a greater per-capita contribution to the nation's military manpower than any other state.

Looking specifically at men between the ages of 18 and 44, approximately 17 percent served during the war.

Montanans continued that tradition during World War Two. Approximately 57,000 men and women from the state served, nearly 10 percent of Montana's population at the time. More than 1,500 Montanans lost their lives during that conflict.

Montanans also served during the Korean and Vietnam wars and in more recent conflicts. Native American service members from Montana's tribal nations have also made significant contributions to the nation's military history.

Montana's military heritage continues today through the Montana National Guard, whose roots date back to 1867, when the First Regiment of Montana Volunteers was established.

Here in Glasgow, residents will have an opportunity to recognize local veterans this morning.

A Veterans Day breakfast will be served at the VFW today, Wednesday, November 11th, from 7 until 9 a.m. The breakfast is free to all veterans and is sponsored by Reynold's Market.

Today, we pause to remember the sacrifices made by America's veterans and thank them for their service, dedication and commitment to our country.