Former Idaho Governor recognized for years of service

Former Governor Phil Batt was honored Thursday with the 2019 Idaho Medal of Achievement.

Outgoing Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter presented the award, in memory of Batt’s accomplishments and years of service to the state. It is the highest civilian honor the state bestows.

Batt served from 1995 to 1999 as the 29th Governor of Idaho.

Otter lauded Batt as a role model and mentor. “His bold, courageous leadership on human rights and so many other issues sets him apart and makes him deserving of our deep appreciation and admiration. Phil is one of those rare leaders who transcends political ideology and brings people together,” said Otter.

“I am absolutely delighted to receive this award,” said Governor Batt. “It is a great honor to me.”

The Idaho Medal of Achievement (IMOA) was created by executive order in November 2015 to recognize individual Idahoans for their “exceptional, meritorious, and inspirational” service to the people of Idaho. Governor Otter chose to make the announcement and present the award as his last official act, to take place in the Governor’s Ceremonial Office, in the Capitol.
Governor-elect Brad Little was also on hand for the event.