Army Staff Sergeant Travis Atkins was among Montana’s and America’s finest.
Born and raised in Montana, Atkins enlisted in the U.S. Army in 2000 at age 24. He served in Afghanistan, was honorably discharged in 2003, and reenlisted two years later.
Shielding his fellow soldiers from a terrorist attack in Iraq, Atkins died on June 1, 2007 as he tackled and pinned down a suicide bomber who detonated a bomb. Atkins’ quick thinking and selfless actions saved the lives of his fellow soldiers.
Atkins initially received the Distinguished Service Cross for his heroism, but after a Department of Defense review, he was awarded the Medal of Honor.
In March, Atkins’ son, Trevor, and parents, Jack and Elaine, attended a White House ceremony in which the president posthumously awarded Atkins the Medal of Honor. It was my honor and privilege to stand with his family as President Trump presented them with his Medal of Honor.
It was also a humbling privilege to stand with the hundreds of Montanans who gave a heartfelt welcome to Jack and Elaine as they returned to Bozeman following the ceremony in Washington.
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| Jack and Elaine Atkins return to Bozeman |
Bozeman VA clinic should bear Atkins’ name
Staff Sergeant Travis Atkins showed unparalleled courage and made the ultimate sacrifice to protect the soldiers he served with in Iraq.
As a symbol of our eternal gratitude for his selfless sacrifice, I introduced a measure to rename the VA clinic in Bozeman after this Montana hero. Renaming the Bozeman clinic after him will serve as a lasting tribute to Travis’ legacy of valor.
Montana veterans in Butte and Bozeman receive congressional recognition
Through the Montana Congressional Veteran Commendation program, Montana recognizes outstanding veterans who have served our country and dedicated their time to our communities.
It was a privilege to recently honor Harold “Pete” Godtland and Eileen Greb from Butte for their service to country and community.
Harry Armstrong and Len Albright were also recently recognized for their many contributions to the Bozeman community.
Visit my website to learn more about the Montana Congressional Veteran Commendation program.
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| Pete Godtland and Eileen Greb receive the Montana Congressional Veteran Commendation in Butte |
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| Greg honors Harry Armstrong and Len Albright (right) at a Montana Congressional Veteran Commendation ceremony in Bozeman |
