A little about myself, my name is Doug Neil. Though I can't claim to be a Montana native I have been in Montana for 43 of my 44 years (I know I look alot younger than that). I graduated from C.M.Russell High School in 1982, and then attended Montana State University, "GO BOBCATS". I started at Great Falls Fire/Rescue in Feb. 1989. After a brief hiatus (layoff) of 3 1/2 years, I returned to the department in Dec. of 1992. I was elected to the Executive Board of IAFF Local #8, in 1994, and was elected President in 1996. In 1998, I was elected to the Executive Board of Montana State Firemen's Association to serve as a lobbyist during the Montana Legislature, a position that I still hold today, though we have changed the title to Political Director, as lobbyist tends to conjure up back vibes.
I was promoted to Captain, in August 1999, and I still occupy the Captains seat today when on the BRT (BIG RED TRUCK). When not on the BRT, campaigning or spending way too much time in Helena, I enjoy time with family, wife Darci (24 years) daughter Witne, son Kody and grandson Cerek, and friends (though not enough time), golf, softball, skiing, reading and especially hunting in great outdoors of Montana (you probably won't be able to contact me after election day until the end of the season.)
It has been my pleasure to represent the great Fire Fighters in the state of Montana, may you sleep a little better knowing that your local Fire Fighters are the best, second to none. With that said, if given the opportunity, remember to thank them and their families, and keep them in your thoughts and prayers, I know they are looking out for you.
Respectfully,
Douglas H. Neil