State of Montana Newsroom
Governor Gianforte Presents Spirit of Montana Award to Park County Rural Fire Chief
LIVINGSTON, Mont. – Governor Greg Gianforte today recognized Park County Rural Fire Chief Dann Babcox with the Spirit of Montana award for his 25 years of service, leadership, and dedication to protecting his community.
“Service is at the heart of who we are as Montanans,” Gov. Gianforte said. “For over 25 years, Chief Babcox has served Park County with steady leadership, humility, and a commitment to protecting the lives and safety of Montanans. We thank him for his dedication and life of service.”
Gov. Gianforte presenting Chief Babcox with his Spirit of Montana Award
During a ceremony held at the fire station, Gov. Gianforte joined firefighters, community members, and local leaders to present Babcox with a certificate and a flag flown over the State Capitol in his honor and shared the story of why he was nominated.
Babcox began his career as a volunteer firefighter and rose through the ranks to lieutenant, captain, assistant chief, and ultimately fire chief. In 2009, he was appointed as the district’s first paid fire chief, helping lead a department that serves more than 600 square miles. Under his leadership, the department responded to a wide range of emergencies, including wildland fires, structure fires, severe wind events, winter storms, and major accidents.
In 2016, Babcox partnered with Helena College to launch an innovative fire program that allows students to live at the station and gain hands on experience while completing their education. The program has helped train the next generation of firefighters while improving response times and supporting the district’s largely volunteer force.
Approximately 95 percent of the department is made up of volunteers who train regularly to serve their community. Babcox has consistently praised his team’s professionalism and dedication, once noting he would match them up against any municipal department.
“I couldn’t have done it without all of you,” Chief Babcox said. “I wake up knowing that every time that pager goes off I’ve got some of the best people in the world are going to respond and take care of the things that I was taking care of for the past 25 years. My hope is that everything continues to get better, and I know it will be because of the leadership you have here. Governor, thank you so much for coming here and seeing what we do and taking time out of your day.”
In recognition of his leadership in Park County, Babcox received the Montana Fire Chiefs Association’s Award of Excellence in 2019.
“Chief Babcox represents the very best of Montana,” Gov. Gianforte added. “His selfless service and commitment to others embody the spirit of our state.”
The governor’s Spirit of Montana award recognizes Montanans for their accomplishments, dedication, or service. Montanans may nominate members of their community for the award here.
Watch a video of the award presentation here.
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