Governor Greg Gianforte joined the Montana 250th Commission and the Montana Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association on March 24 for a Flag Sojourn 250 ceremony at the Montana State Capitol, where an American flag was raised as part of its national journey.
The event is part of the Flag Sojourn 250 initiative, which sends a single U.S. flag to every state, territory, and several military cemeteries abroad in celebration of the nation’s upcoming Semiquincentennial on July 4, 2026. The ceremony highlights both national unity and remembrance for those who have served.
“In Montana, we value the Constitution, freedom, and the enduring promise of this great nation,” Governor Gianforte said during his remarks at the event. “As this flag travels across the country to celebrate the 250th anniversary of our country, it serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made to protect our liberties and the responsibility to preserve them for future generations.”
The National Flag Foundation (NFF) and America 250 partnered for this initiative. The flag has already visited all U.S. territories and military cemeteries as of October 8, 2025, with its final stops in each state before concluding in Washington D.C., where it will be presented to the America 250th Committee in July.
During Monday’s ceremony at Helena’s capitol grounds, Governor Gianforte participated alongside Lewis and Clark County Sheriff Leo Dutton and members of law enforcement during a formal raising and lowering of the flag at the Peace Officers Memorial. “The Flag Sojourn 250 is more than a journey, it is a solemn Sojourn. The Flag Sojourn 250 honors our nation’s most prized symbol and pays tribute to all our countrymen and women, including those who have given their lives in service to the ideals the flag represents,” Sheriff Dutton said.
After its stop in Montana, organizers say that Wyoming will host next before concluding with ceremonies in Washington D.C.
