Full disclosure: my time in the military was not as long as it was supposed to be. I did take the oath, and at that time, went through the Butte Military Entrance Processing Station. It was also the first time I ever flew on a plane. My entire military career was twenty-nine days.

The reason my military career was cut short is a long story, but essentially, the official reason for my discharge was medical. Military service runs in my family. My brother, father, both grandfathers, and multiple cousins have served our country honorably. I respect anyone who takes the oath and serves our country.

The United States, as of June 2024, had about 2.1 million troops. That is including active-duty and reserves according to USAFacts.org. Montana is a patriotic state and we have a lot of proud veterans who have served our country.

Read More: Some of the Ways Montana Has Earned It's Patriotic Status

Montana also has a high percentage of veterans. According to World Population Review Montana has the third highest number of veterans per capita, following Alaska and Virginia.

As of June 2024, Montana had 3,354 active military personnel stationed here. The states where the most active military are stationed are California with 160,746, Virginia with 121,687, and Texas with 110,558. The state with the fewest military personnel is Vermont with 132.

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The military personnel stationed at Malmstrom Air Force Base in Great Falls, have a very important job to do. They are one of the three U.S. Air Force Bases that maintain and operate the Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missiles.

I would like to personally thank all the members of the military that are stationed here or work here. Whether you are taking care of missiles, recruiting new members for service or are a part of the National Guard or Military Reserve. Thank you for your service.

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