Great Falls, Montana – A member of the Montana Air National Guard has received one of the highest honors available to enlisted members of the U.S. Air Force after being recognized for exceptional leadership, professional achievement, and dedication to both military and civilian service.
Governor Greg Gianforte and the Montana National Guard announced that Staff Sergeant Brianna D. St. Lawrence-Brody, a command post controller assigned to the 120th Airlift Wing in Great Falls, has been selected as one of the U.S. Air Force’s 2026 Total Force Outstanding Airmen of the Year.
The recognition places her among just 12 Airmen nationwide honored through the prestigious program, making the achievement especially significant. This year, she is also the only Air National Guard Airman selected to receive a Total Force Outstanding Airman of the Year honor.
Governor Gianforte praised St. Lawrence-Brody for representing Montana with distinction both in and out of uniform.
“Service is at the heart of who we are as Montanans,” Gov. Gianforte said. “I am proud to announce one of our very own, Staff Sgt. St. Lawrence-Brody, was selected as one of twelve airmen across the country honored to receive one of the highest honors in the Air Force. Brianna represents the best of Montana through her hard work, determination, leadership, and an unwavering dedication to her community.”
Honored for leadership and dedication
The Air Force’s Outstanding Airmen of the Year program recognizes enlisted personnel who consistently demonstrate excellence in leadership, outstanding job performance, professional growth, personal development, and continued service to their communities.
St. Lawrence-Brody earned the recognition after standing out among top enlisted Airmen from the Active-Duty Air Force, the Air Force Reserve, and the Air National Guard.
Her selection highlights not only her military accomplishments but also her commitment to serving others outside the armed forces.
In addition to serving part-time with the Montana Air National Guard, she works full-time as a school nurse in Great Falls, caring for students and supporting the health and well-being of children in her community.
Military leaders said her ability to balance both roles reflects an extraordinary commitment to public service.
Brig. Gen. Trent Gibson, the Adjutant General of Montana, said St. Lawrence-Brody’s recognition is a proud moment for the entire organization.
”Staff Sgt. St. Lawrence-Brody’s selection is an extraordinary achievement and a proud moment for the Montana National Guard,” Gibson said. “Whether caring for students as a school nurse in Great Falls or serving in defense of our nation as a member of the Montana National Guard, Brianna exemplifies the professionalism and selfless service that define our organization. Her dedication reflects the very best of our Airmen, and we are incredibly proud to have her representing Montana and the Air National Guard on the Air Force’s biggest stage.”
Officials noted that St. Lawrence-Brody now joins an elite group of Airmen recognized each year for outstanding accomplishments and continued commitment to the Air Force mission.
Her achievement also highlights the strength of the Montana Air National Guard, whose members serve both their local communities and the nation whenever called upon. State leaders said her recognition demonstrates the organization’s ongoing focus on developing highly skilled leaders who remain prepared to respond to both state and national missions.
Later this year, St. Lawrence-Brody will be formally honored during the Air Force’s 2026 Outstanding Airmen of the Year recognition event, where she will be recognized alongside other exceptional enlisted Airmen from across the United States.
The award serves as one of the Air Force’s highest enlisted distinctions and recognizes individuals whose leadership, professionalism, and commitment to service set them apart. For Montana officials, St. Lawrence-Brody’s selection stands as both a personal achievement and a point of pride for the state, reflecting the dedication of the men and women serving in the Montana Air National Guard while making meaningful contributions to their communities every day.
