HELENA — Governor Steve Bullock has ordered Montana flags flown at half staff Saturday for a Montana Air National Guard pilot who died fighting fires in Australia.
Captain Ian McBeth died when his air tanker crashed on January 23rd in the Australian state of New South Wales.
He was in Australia flying for British Columbia-based Coulson aviation, which had been contracted to fight the fires.
McBeth was a Lieutenant Colonel in Montana Air National Guard 120th Airlift Wing.
He was 44 years-old.
The governor's proclamation noted McBeth was a devoted husband and father, a brave first responder, and selfless service member, who made the ultimate sacrifice.
He is survived by his family, including his three children and wife Bowdie.
