The Rules of Engagement in Montana

Montana, “big sky country’, the “last best place”… Better know what the rules of engagement are here before you head ‘em up and move e’m out

No Montanan will ever make fun of another Montanan hat no matter how dirty or bent up it is.

Children are taught at an early age to say “Ma’am” and “Sir” to anyone older and are generally corrected if they have a moment of brain freeze. This habit continues well into adulthood.

Montanans mostly respect other driver’s need to hurry, even if they don’t feel the need to be, and will most likely pull the shoulder of a two-lane road so they can pass. But, we do expect a wave of the hand to say “thank you” as y’all zoom on by!

Best not go over a rancher’s fence without his permission no matter how many points that buck has. This is considered trespassing and property lines are just not violated in these parts. If ya decide to take your chances, then be prepared to explain in the emergency room how ya got buckshot in your rear. Of course they will probably know anyway. Oh yeah, and don’t forget about those bulls who may decide you just shouldn’t be there either!

There are certain rules to carrying on a conversation with a Montanans that are just plain good manners. First never discuss anything, especially business, without first asking about the family, how they’ve been feeling and what they think about the weather. Yankees seem to get right impatient with these preliminaries but this is just the way it is.

John Wayne, may he rest in peace, rarely removed his hat in the movies when he entered a house or a cafe. If ladies are present, it is a must that the hat be removed. And a lady is lady until she proves differently.

Montanans always compliment a good cook by asking for “seconds” or the very least, the recipe.

Lastly, the most important mannerly act taught to young Montanns is to never ask a man where he’s from. If he’s from Montana he’ll tell you. If he isn’t, don’t embarrass him!

Git ‘r done.