Governor Gianforte Honors Freedom At Capitol Flag Ceremony

An American flag traveling across the country as part of a nationwide commemorative effort was raised at the Montana State Capitol this week during a ceremony marking the approaching 250th anniversary of the United States.

Gov. Greg Gianforte joined members of the Montana 250th Commission and local law enforcement for the event, which included the raising and lowering of the flag at the Peace Officers Memorial.

“In Montana, we value the Constitution, freedom, and the enduring promise of this great nation,” Gianforte said. “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 effort, known as the Flag Sojourn 250, was organized by the National Flag Foundation in partnership with America250. A single U.S. flag has been sent to every state, U.S. territory and 26 military cemeteries in 10 countries as part of the initiative.

The journey began on Flag Day, June 14, 2025, and included stops at overseas cemeteries and U.S. territories before returning to the United States in October 2025. The flag is now traveling to each state and is expected to conclude its trip in Washington, D.C., in July 2026, where it will be presented to the America 250th Committee and raised in the nation’s capital.

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Organizers say the initiative is intended to highlight national unity and commemorate the country’s semiquincentennial on July 4, 2026.