Founders of Vets4Vets
Three men. One mission. A lasting commitment to veterans.
“I have God in one hand, Jesus in the other, everything will be okay.”
William “Bill” Garberg
William “Bill” Garberg was a lifelong Montanan whose life was defined by service—both in uniform and in his community. A graduate of Great Falls High School, Bill went on to serve in the U.S. Army as a combat engineer with the 101st Airborne Division during the Vietnam War, including participation in the Tet Offensive in the Ashau Valley.
After returning home, Bill dedicated himself to supporting fellow veterans. He was a founding member of multiple veteran-focused organizations, including Veterans Support Group in 1994, Vets4Vets in 2002, and the Stand Down events beginning in 2003. His commitment extended to mentoring through Veterans Treatment Court and volunteering at the Grace Home Homeless Veterans Shelter.
Known by friends as both “Bondo Bill” and “Sweet William,” Bill was deeply respected for his compassion, integrity, and unwavering belief that no veteran should be left behind. His life’s work helped shape the foundation of Vets4Vets and continues to guide the organization’s mission today.
Bill’s legacy lives on through the countless veterans he helped, the community he strengthened, and the values of service, faith, and brotherhood he embodied.
Founder | Veteran Advocate | U.S. Army (Vietnam)WALLACE “WALLY’’ MCMANIGLE
Founder | Veteran Advocate | U.S. Army (Vietnam)
Wallace “Wally” McManigle is a Vietnam War veteran whose life has been defined by service—both on the battlefield and here at home. From August 1969 to October 1970, Wally served with the 9th Infantry Division, 5th Battalion, 60th Infantry, during one of the most intense and complex periods of the Vietnam War. His service included participation in the invasion of Cambodia, a mission that required courage, discipline, and unwavering commitment under extreme conditions.
Like many veterans of his era, Wally returned home carrying experiences that few can fully understand. Instead of turning away from those hardships, he chose to turn toward his fellow veterans—especially those struggling to find stability, resources, or support.
That commitment became the foundation for what is now one of the most impactful veteran-focused efforts in the region.
This year marks the 21st Annual Stand Down, an event born from Wally’s belief that no veteran should be forgotten or left behind. Over the past two decades, the Stand Down has helped more than 11,100 veterans, providing access to critical resources, support services, and a sense of dignity and community when it was needed most.
Wally’s leadership isn’t about recognition—it’s about results. His steady presence, firsthand understanding of military service, and genuine care for veterans have shaped this organization's mission and values from day one. The work continues because the need continues, and Wally’s vision remains clear: veterans taking care of veterans, no matter the circumstances.
His legacy is not just measured in years, but in lives changed.
EVERETT “RODGER” MCCONNEL
Founder | Veteran Advocate | U.S. Army (Vietnam)
“You get out of yourself and start helping others. You realize there are people in greater need than you.”
Rodger McConnell was a tireless advocate for veterans and a deeply respected leader in the Great Falls community. A Vietnam combat veteran, Rodger dedicated his life after service to ensuring fellow veterans received support, accountability, and a real path forward.
Rodger was instrumental in organizing the annual Stand Down with Vets4Vets and played a key role in working with Disabled American Veterans. He helped bring a replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial to Great Falls, hosted a veteran-focused radio program on KGPR, and was a mentor with Veterans Treatment Court—where he also helped build the mentor program itself.
Having personally overcome post-traumatic stress and homelessness, Rodger believed deeply in helping veterans reclaim their lives through structure, responsibility, and community. He often emphasized that support was not about coddling, but about earning progress and restoring purpose. His work helped shape Veterans Treatment Court into a life-changing alternative to incarceration and a model of hope for veterans in crisis.
Known for his humility, compassion, and unwavering service, Rodger’s legacy lives on through the countless veterans he mentored and the programs he helped build. His influence remains a guiding force within Vets4Vets and the broader veteran community.