Join Commander John Gilligan, Captain of the USS MONTANA (SSN 794), and a group of top sailors from the newest fast attack submarine in the Pacific Fleet at public events in Helena, Great Falls and Fort Benton September 9 through 12 — and see them introduced at the September 13 University of Montana Military and Veterans Appreciation football game against North Dakota!

CDR Gilligan and crew members will be in Montana as part of the ongoing USS Montana Committee and Navy program of visits to all parts of the state to better understand Big Sky Country and connect with Montanans. With the CDR Gilligan will be:
– Chief of the Boat Ernie Scott, the highest-ranking enlisted crew member aboard SSN 794;
– Petty Officer First Class and Chief-select Jonathan Mossie, the 2024 Sailor of the Year;
– Petty Officer Second Class Kelly Beilfuss, 2024 Junior Sailor of the Year; and,
– Petty Officer third class Jhony Xocuaurbano, 2024 Blue Jacket of the Year.

As part of each visit such as the upcoming one, leaders and crew members are available to meet and visit with Montanans from many communities, large and small. They are hosted by Montana’s Native People and participate in Tribal events. They meet Montana’s leaders, and our veterans. And they learn about our history, culture, economy and natural beauty – and the support of all Montanans for our military, our veterans and the USS MONTANA, her crew and their families.

Please plan to join us for one or more of the following public events to meet the CO and sailors who will make comments and answer questions:

• Helena, Tuesday, September 9, 12 Noon Reception and Buffet Lunch
Hosts: Helena Rotary Club and Helena Area Chambers of Commerce
When: 12 Noon – 1:00 pm
Where: Headwaters Crafthouse, 2125 Last Chance Gulch, Helena
(In the Farmers State Bank Building)
Cost: Suggested donation $10 per person (Cash beer service available)

Reservations are required, and space may fill. RSVP by email to: [email protected]
or call 406.442.4120

• Great Falls, Wednesday, September 10, Reception and Native Dances
Hosts: Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians and Great Falls Area Chamber of Commerce
When: 5:30 – 7:00 pm
Where: Little Shell Tribe Pow Wow Arbor, North of Great Falls via NW Bypass and 6th Street West
(Inclement weather alternate location : Little Shell Elders Center,1529 Stuckey Road)
Cost: Free light refreshments and non-alcoholic beverages. (Cash beer and wine bar.)
Reservations are required at this RSVP Link, or call the Great Falls Area Chamber of Commerce: 406.761.4434, press 1.

• Fort Benton, Thursday, September 11, Reception/ Meet & Greet the Crew
Hosts: Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion
When: 4-5:00 pm
Where: Montana Agricultural Center, Lippard Auditorium
Cost: Free light refreshments
No reservations needed.

Again, we hope you can be with us for one of our public events – and that you’ll say hello to the sailors if you spot them in your community!