Governor Gianforte Honors Outstanding Veteran in Deer Lodge

DEER LODGE, Mont. – Governor Greg Gianforte today recognized Jay Wood with the 2021 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation at a ceremony in Deer Lodge. The event honoring Wood marks the final ceremony for the 31 awardees of the 2021 commendation.

Nominations for the 2022 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation will open the first week of September 2022.

“There’s no better way to cap off the 2021 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation program than by honoring Jay Wood and his tremendous life of service,” Gov. Gianforte said. “After serving in the military, Jay opened a veterans food pantry out of his business in Deer Lodge, touching many lives in his community. On behalf of all Montanans, I’m incredibly grateful to Jay and all our outstanding veterans as they continue their service here in our communities.”

Sergeant Jay Wood

As a member of the U.S. Coast Guard from 1981 to 1995 and 120th Airlift Wing of the Montana National Guard from 2010 to 2020, Wood has served our nation and state proudly. Even after over two decades of honorable military service, he kept the flame of service burning by helping others in the veteran community. Wood is a member of the American Legion Honor Guard, takes local disabled veterans hunting and fishing, and was an active member of the Junior Enlisted council. He also runs his own small business, Jay’s Small Engine Repair, serving a critical need in the community.

Most notably, Wood set aside his valuable time and resources to create the Deer Lodge Veterans Food Pantry, supporting hundreds of veterans across southwest Montana right out of his business. Wood helps feed Montana’s veterans, offers them a sense of community, drives them to doctor’s appointments, and provides items to reduce the risk of suicide, like gun locks and pill cases.

The Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation recognizes outstanding Montana veterans who have selflessly served our country in uniform and made a positive impact in their community. Thirty-one veterans received the award in 2021.

“No one better embodies our Montana values and commitment to service than our veterans,” Gov Gianforte continued. “While we can never fully repay them, we can thank and honor them, and that’s what the Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation is all about."