'A steady voice in the chaos': LaCross retires after 30 years in dispatch

'A steady voice in the chaos': LaCross retires after 30 years in dispatch
Dispatcher Jennifer LaCross is retiring from Gallatin County 911 after 30 years of service as a dispatcher. / Gallatin County 911

After 30 years of service, Dispatcher Jennifer LaCross completed her final sign off last week

“Not only was this Jennifer’s last transmission, but she had the honor of completing it alongside her husband, retired from the Bozeman Police Department, making the moment even more meaningful,” reads a May 15 statement from Gallatin County 911. “Jennifer’s career has left a lasting impact on this community, the first responders we serve, and everyone fortunate enough to work beside her over the years.”

LaCross started dispatching for Bozeman Police Department prior to the formation of Gallatin County 911.

“Jennifer has been a steady voice in the chaos, a source of knowledge and strength for her team, and a true professional behind the scenes of countless calls for service,” reads an April 29 statement from the agency. “Her commitment to this profession and to the community she served for three decades has left a lasting impact that won't be forgotten. While we are very sad to see her go, we are INCREDIBLY grateful for her years of service and the legacy she leaves behind.”

Dispatcher Jennifer LaCross, center, receives the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services EMS Dispatcher of the Year Award in 2023. / Gallatin County 911
Dispatcher Jennifer LaCross meets with a man injured in a motorcycle crash related to a call she handled in 2022. The call proved to be challenging due to the status of the motorcyclist and the initially unknown location of the crash. Through LaCross' questioning, she was able to find the location and give life-saving direction to the caller. The motorcyclist requested to meet LaCross in spring 2023 and was able to personally thank her for saving his life. / Gallatin County 911
Dispatcher Jennifer LaCross was honored with a lunch hosted Monday by Bozeman Fire in recognition of her actions during a 911 call on Dec. 17, 2024. / Gallatin County 911