HELENA, Mont. — Every year, the Helena Exchange Club honors a local firefighter who makes significant contributions to the community's safety and well-being.
On Thursday, Lieutenant JD Murphy of the Helena Fire Department was named the 2026 Firefighter of the Year.
“I have always loved it ever since I was a little kid. I dressed up as a firefighter for Halloween and just wanted to pursue that,” Murphy said.
Murphy has been with the department for just over eight years and is recognized for his positive attitude, leadership and mentorship of younger firefighters.
“It means everything. Being nominated by my peers is very touching, and this department means a lot to me,” Murphy said.
Murphy received a check for $1,000 for the honor. Half of that will be given to the Helena Fire Department, and the other $500 to his charity of choice.
The annual award is just one piece of the Helena Exchange Club’s mission of working together to make the community a better place to live through programs of service in Americanism, service, youth activities and the prevention of child abuse.
