DNRC representative is also praised

Editor,

Regardless of the conflict that erupted at the Polson City Council meeting with Polson Fire Chief Tom Maloney, a good man is getting kicked around. I am referring to the DNRC "representative," which by the way was not present to speak publicly in defense of the accusations, such as what Mr. Maloney wanted for himself. I feel compelled to report that Chief Maloney's feelings regarding this individual are not representative of me, or all of Lake County fire departments.

I am not aware of any that have the same issues that Chief Maloney has with this person, or that has experienced the behavior Maloney refers to, at least "first hand." I do not know what the specific complaints are to the "supervisors" of this DNRC "representative" or if there was collaboration involved, but I have drafted a letter to the Director of the DNRC in Helena in support of this employee.

My experience with this person has been that of extreme support of the efforts of Lake County fire services. When it comes to respect, this DNRC employee treats everyone the same, regardless of position in society. Over the nine years I have known this person, I have witnessed polite and respectful communications with everyone from political leaders, to entry level EFF's on wildland fire hand crews. I have also fought fire with this individual and am comfortable with the level of experience and concern for fire fighter safety.

I wish the communities served in Lake County could witness the selfless level of cooperation among our firefighters, which includes a superb effort from the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribe, the Office of Emergency Management, and the DNRC (which I will attribute mainly to this individual in question). I have been extremely proud to be a part of the Lake County Fire Association, and am opposed to anything destructive to its success.

It is good to see a strong show of support for the Polson Fire Chief. I think he has good qualities as well. The firefighters of Polson also have been very supportive of my fire department. I wish to continue good relations with Polson, and it should be understood that I am writing this of my own accord. I am Fire Chief of the Rollins Rural Fire District, and my fire department is not affiliated with this letter to the editor.

Perhaps more went on at the council meeting, but all I have to go on is what I read in the Lake County Leader, which was in turn, forwarded to the Montana Fire and Rescue Newsletter (for all firefighters to see). While Maloney got accolades, a good person was "thrown to the wolves," while all that attended looked on and said nothing. Good work, people. You should all be very proud. Things are so much easier when you don't have to face the accused. Seems like there used to be a thing called "honor."

Don Armstrong

Rollins