Two local veterans honored with Spirit of Freedom Awards from Senator Mike Crapo
POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) – Veteran’s Day is all about celebrating those who served in the United States Armed Forces. For some veterans, the service doesn’t end when they hang up the uniform. Two local veterans were honored with the “Spirit of Freedom: Idaho Veterans Service Award,” chosen by U.S. Senator Mike Crapo, (R)-Idaho.
The Spirit of Freedom awards are given to veterans and community members who assist veterans each year by Senator Crapo. This year, 23 veterans across the state received the award, including Monte Hibbert and Cody De Los Reyes from Bannock County.
Senator Crapo created the awards in 2002 to recognize outstanding service to the country as well as local veteran communities. At the Bannock County Veterans Services ceremony on this Veteran’s Day, both Hibbert and Reyes were recognized for their commitment to serving the nation.
“This means a lot to me,” Reyes said, holding the American flag and certificate to signify the award. “I don’t feel like I deserve it more than anybody else. I love working with this community.”
Reyes served for 23 years in the U.S. Air Force and was deployed four times to Afgahnistan, Iraq and Haiti.
Reyes has continued his service through the Veteran’s Association in Bannock County and said he loves helping veterans make sure they get the benefits they deserve, attend events and find community after service.
“There’s help out there, there’s people to help and lead the way. You don’t have to do it by yourself,” Reyes said.
Monte Hibbert spent more than 20 years in the U.S. Armed Forced, calling his career “an honor.”
“We all have different roles to play,” Hibbert said. “I am so honored to have been able to serve in the military.”
As a major in the U.S. Army and Army National Guard, Hibbert’s service included deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom III. He was also honored as the Military Person of the Year in 2018.
“[I enjoy] working with the veterans organizations, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars,” he said. “There are just so many opportunities to serve others, and it’s an honor to be able to do so.”
Hibbert has been recognized for his volunteer efforts post-military in 4-H, Scouting America and Girl Scouts. He knows he is one of many brave men and women who have served the country and deserve recognition on every day, not just Veteran’s Day.
“Remember and recognize all of the veterans,” he said. “The individuals who have sacrificed so much and many the ultimate sacrifice for the many freedoms that we enjoy.”
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