University of Montana Western Honors Campus Veterans for Veterans Day

DILLON, Mont. — In recognition of Veterans Day, the University of Montana Western formally recognized six members of its campus community for their military service.

The institution highlighted individuals who served across the U.S. Navy, Air Force, Army, and Marine Corps, noting roles that spanned combat operations, military training, aviation support, and specialized technical assignments.

The six recognized members of the Bulldog community are:

Duane “Bearcat” Pyeatt served 20 years in the U.S. Navy from 1987 to 2007, retiring as a Chief Petty Officer. Throughout his tenure, he undertook roles involving Explosive Ordnance Disposal, technical maintenance and specialized welding, alongside instructional duties aboard the USS Frederick and at naval facilities nationwide.
Tara Jo Brannigan fulfilled duties within the U.S. Air Force between 1990 and 1991 operating as a Medical Service Specialist situated at Lackland Air Force Base located in San Antonio, Texas, throughout the period of Desert Shield and Desert Storm. She received the National Defense Service Medal for her active-duty service.
James Ritter served in the U.S. Navy from 2005 to 2009 as a Third Class Aviation Boatswain’s Mate. During his assignment in Yokosuka, Japan, he worked on the USS Kitty Hawk and the USS George Washington to assist with aircraft recovery and launch operations, additionally securing the title of a Trusty Shellback.
Tom Nichols served in the U.S. Navy from 1983 to 1991 as an Electrician’s Mate (E-5). After completing specialized nuclear power training, he served aboard the nuclear-powered fast-attack submarine USS Haddock, completing Pacific deployments and an extended period of 63 consecutive days underwater before serving as a Navy reservist in Butte, Montana.
Grady Holt completed service in the U.S. Army spanning from 2006 through 2012, reaching the rank of Sergeant. His military background includes deployments with Task Force Troy during Operation Iraqi Freedom and subsequent work as a Training Noncommissioned Officer for Bravo Company, 3rd Battalion, 415th Infantry, aiding in the preparation of fellow soldiers for deployment.
Nick Gutcheck carried out military service in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2001 until 2005, achieving the rank of Sergeant while functioning as an Infantryman assigned to the 4th Marine Expeditionary Brigade (Anti-Terrorism), thereby aiding the overarching Marine Corps objective to defend and safeguard the nation.

The university acknowledged that some veterans within the campus community prefer not to be publicly identified or were not included in this year’s recognition, while extending its appreciation to every veteran among its faculty, staff, and students.

Native American veterans go above and beyond in serving their country, and the patriotism and respect shown to them rivals that of any other American cultural group.