Heroes Who Serve: 5 First Responders Keeping Montana Safe

Montana is home to dedicated first responders who go above and beyond to keep their communities safe. That’s why Patch and T-Mobile have teamed up to spotlight EMTs, firefighters and police officers who are making a difference every day.

Check out five outstanding Montana first responders who are making an impact. And if you know a hero who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate a first responder for a chance to be featured in our Heroes Who Serve series on Patch!

Officer Tara Weekes (Billings) — Recognized as the 2024 Officer of the Year, Officer Tara Weekes was praised for her whole-hearted commitment to victims and her thoughtful approach to law enforcement. Working overnight shifts, she handles a wide range of high-pressure calls — from domestic violence to active robberies — by relying on strong communication skills and empathy rather than physical force. Over her six years with the Billings Police Department, Weekes has earned a reputation for thorough casework and genuine concern for those she serves. Her recognition underscores the impact of her steady presence and dedication, even as she humbly views it as “just doing my job.” Read more here.

Firefighter Taylor Blakely (Missoula) — Taylor Blakely, a firefighter at the Missoula Rural Fire District, helped save the life of a runner during the YMCA Riverbank Run in April 2024. While waiting to join the fun run with his family, Blakely heard calls for help and found that Eric Crosby, a runner from Idaho, had collapsed from a heart attack on Beartracks Bridge. Blakely immediately began CPR until Missoula Fire, Police and Emergency Services arrived to continue lifesaving efforts. Thanks to their teamwork, Crosby survived, and intends to return to this year's race. Read more here.

Officer J. Gilliland (Ronan) — Ronan Police Officer J. Gilliland was formally recognized for his lifesaving actions during a routine crash response that turned critical. After arriving at the scene of a minor motorcycle accident in September 2024, Gilliland found the rider unresponsive and immediately began CPR, directing bystanders to assist until paramedics arrived. His quick thinking and decisive action helped save the life of Kris McGoldrick, who later personally thanked the officer at a city council meeting. The Montana Public Safety Standards and Training Council honored Gilliland for his outstanding conduct and commitment to public safety. Read more here.

Trooper Barb Armstrong (Helena) — Montana Highway Patrol Trooper Barb Armstrong earned national recognition for her heroic response to a rare and dangerous otter attack that left three women injured along the Jefferson River. On August 2, 2023, Armstrong swam 75 yards in full gear across the river to reach a severely wounded victim, carrying medical supplies through fast-moving water as night fell. Her quick thinking and bravery helped stabilize the woman until a life flight crew arrived, who later said they wouldn’t have located the victim without Armstrong’s guidance. In recognition of her actions, Armstrong received an Honorable Mention at the national TOP COPS Awards and the Montana Highway Patrol’s highest honor, the Medal of Valor. Read more here.

Officer Marcus Lindquist (Polson) — In 2024, Officer Marcus Lindquist of the Polson Police Department was awarded the Life Saving Medal for his swift, compassionate response to a critical emergency involving a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Arriving on the scene, Lindquist took command and used his own personally purchased medical supplies to seal the victim’s chest wounds, stabilizing them until further medical help arrived. During his response, Lindquist knelt beside the victim, held their hand and stayed with them. His quick thinking kept the victim alive, but it was his calm presence and quiet reassurance that gave them a reason to keep fighting. Read more here.

We’re fortunate in Montana to have first responders like these working tirelessly to keep us safe. If you know a local hero who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate them to be featured on Patch!