Governor Gianforte Honors French for Act of Kindness

When the dread of winter hit the county and Mother Nature bit the noses off snowmen, visibility was non-existent. The bitter cold was at -70 with the wind factor, and the Montana Highway Department shut down Highway 191 south of Malta to the DY Junction, due to the blowing and drifting snow causing any travel to be unsafe. Individuals who live in this part of the country have a sixth sense that puts them in tune with nature and possibly the nearest weather station. Not everyone got the message in time.

Some people, seven in several vehicles, including a semi-truck, ended up being stranded on the highway. Malta Maintenance Section Supervisor Marcus Green came upon them and was able to contact Mark French, who lives in the area, about 30 miles south of Malta.

Mark and his family, son and daughter, Colt and Brylee, took the stranded seven into their home, prepared a warm meal for them and provided a nights lodging.

At the Town Hall Meeting in Malta on Tuesday, the French family was recognized for their generosity, kindness and actions.

In a letter to the French family, Gov. Gianforte said, "Service is at the core of our Montana values. It's what we do here, and it's part of what makes our state, the Last Best Place. When our neighbors reach out or when we see our neighbors in need, we answer the call.

On behalf of a grateful state, thank you for answering that call and embodying the Spirit of Montana."

In addition to a plaque expressing the gratitude of the State, the French family was presented with a Montana flag that was folded and encased in a frame. The flag had been flown over the capital in Helena.