All of us here at Montana Emergency Medical Services #memorial Foundation want to remember and honor Michael "Hamster" Rich. His nickname was "Hamster" because for such a big man he could get into and out of small and tight spaces, climb up pipes and was always able to get to where he was needed just to do his job. Michael was the Chief of the Twisted R Ranch Public Safety Department and had an extensive career in Law enforcement, Firefighting as well as serving in the Emergency Medical Services as an Emergency Medical Technician. His whole life was driven to protect others. One day Michael was on duty as a Law Enforcement Officer and came upon a house that was fully involved in fire. Michael called for the Fire Department but knowing that they would not be there in time he went in and rescued the homeowner and her dog. Michael performed CPR on the home owner until the Paramedics arrived. The home owner and her dog survived this horrific event and is alive today. Michael was honored by the National Police Hall of Fame for saving the home owners life. The truth is, this is who Michael was. Michael laid down his life so that a stranger could live. He knew the risk and still gave everything he had to save someone's life. He was 30 years old when he passed, just 2 weeks after his little brother passed in the line of duty. Michael left behind his Mother and 2 Sisters. Michael's last tour of duty was September 21, 2021. Michael was also honored by the state of Montana, as they flew the state flag over the Capitol building in Helena Montana and planted a tree on the Capitol grounds in his honor. We know that Michael is with his little brother Brian working on Gods EMS crew to this day watching out for his brother and sister Firefighters, Paramedics and Police Officers who serve those of us in need here on earth. Michael was the second honoree to be named in Legends Park. Michael will always be in our hearts and memories.