Portion of Highway 83 dedicated in firefighter's memory

SEELEY LAKE - Two years after Trenton Johnson was killed while fighting the 2017 Florence Fire, an eight-mile section of Highway 83 through Seeley Lake was named in his honor on Friday, July 19.

Several Montana firefighting crews were in attendance, as well as community members. The dedication event hosted guest speakers from the Forest Service and others, including Vicki Minor, executive director and founder of the Wildland Firefighter Foundation, Adam Babbitt with Grayback Forestry, Trenton's sister DJ Johnson and Missoula County Commissioner Juanita Vero.

"What I can say about Trenton is that hidden behind his youth was a natural leader. He was a person who led by example," said Babbitt. "Working hard and taking charge were ethics he brought to the table and because of that he quickly earned a respect by peers and overhead."

Vero read a proclamation from the Commissioner's office that recognizes July 19 as Trenton Johnson Day in Missoula County.

In March 2019, Governor Bullock signed SB 260 into law, establishing the eight-mile stretch of the highway as Trenton Johnson Memorial Highway. According to Johnson, the location is fitting as their family spent a lot of time recreating around Lake Alva.

"Some of the best times we had were spent in this valley," said Johnson.

Johnson continued, "The Trenton Johnson Memorial Highway is just a fantastic honor. Just remember to take care of each other, put a smile on somebody's face that day and look out for one another. I think that's what the sign is all about. When you pass through this area just remember to be safe...just be positive that day."