HAMILTON — Montana Congressman Greg Gianforte recognized Donald Helmbrecht of Victor with the Montana Congressional Veteran Commendation on Wednesday.
Helmbrecht served in the U.S. Army for seven years -- including tours in Vietnam, Germany, and Korea -- from 1970 to 1976.
"I found out through the grapevine a while ago, that I was going to be honored or recognized. It's humbling, but I guess it's nice to be recognized," said Helmbrecht.
The award is given to veterans for both military service and service within their community.
He received multiple commendations during his years of service including the Purple Heart and Bronze Star.
Helmbrecht was nominated by Corvallis Post 91 where he is active in a number of community activities.
"Well, I found out through the grapevine a while ago, that I was going to be honored or recognized. It's humbling, but I guess it's nice to be recognized," Helmbrecht told MTN News.
He added that his stops along the way included time in Berlin where he lived just two blocks from the famous Checkpoint Charlie.
