1-1-515. Montana medal of valor established. (1) The governor is authorized to present, in the name of the people of Montana, a medal to be known as the Montana medal of valor, bearing a suitable inscription and ribbon, to any citizen of the state who displays extraordinary courage in a situation threatening the lives of one or more people.

(2) The governor may award the Montana medal of valor to anyone whose behavior, in the governor's judgment, merits the recognition. The award must be made in a public ceremony at the recipient's city or town of residence or at a city or town designated by the recipient, except under the circumstances indicated in subsection (3).

(3) If the recipient of the medal of valor dies before the medal is awarded, the governor shall present the medal to the recipient's spouse, eldest surviving child, eldest surviving sibling, or either parent or to a person designated by one of these. If the medal is presented to a person who is not a resident of Montana, the award ceremony must be held at the state capitol in Helena.