Gianforte Honors Olson At Park
Master Chief Constructionman Peter Olson was honored in front of family, friends and members of the public at Culbertson’s American Legion Park on May 6. Gov. Greg Gianforte presented Olson with the 2025 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation for his service to the community and the nation.
Well over 100 people attended the event, including the governor’s wife, Susan Gianforte, and staff. Olson was the only individual from eastern Montana to be recognized in the 2025 class of commendations.
Olson served in the U.S. Navy and U.S. Navy Reserve from 1964 to 2004, including aboard the USS Gridley and two tours to Vietnam. He worked in engineering, construction, logistics and leadership missions. He received the Army Commendation Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal.
The commendation also recognizes Olson’s service at home as a life member of the American Legion Post 81 in Culbertson and of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Non-Commissioned Officers Association, the Vietnam Veterans of America, and the SeaBee Memorial Scholarship Association and as a member of the Knights of Columbus. In particular, the governor recognized Olson’s contribution to restoring Legion Park, the site of the ceremony. “For more than 18 years, you’ve helped lead the development of the 40-acre American Legion Park in Culbertson,” Gianforte said, “contributing an estimated 8,000 volunteer hours. Your efforts were instrumental in securing and protecting the property for community use, preserving the park for future generations.”
Gianforte was introduced by American Legion Post 81 Commander Chris Peterson and cake and refreshments were served following the ceremony. Olson thanked Gianforte during a brief acceptance and acknowledged his wife Donna and members of his family, many of whom were in attendance, along with Legion members and fellow veterans.
