A Montana family honored the memory of Freman Robins Bends, a truck driver tragically killed by his girlfriend in 2016, by serving warm meals to truckers on Valentine's Day at a Love's truck stop in Hardin, Montana.

The tribute: The event, which took place on what would have been Freman's birthday, provided truck drivers with roast beef and mashed potatoes, symbolizing the comforting meals Bends appreciated after long hauls.

• Freman's family used the feed to celebrate his life, raise awareness about crimes against Indigenous persons, and show appreciation for truckers.

Community impact: By giving back to the trucking community, the Bends family not only kept Freman's spirit alive but also spread a message about the ongoing issue of crimes involving missing or murdered indigenous persons reported KTVQ.

Freman was murdered by Vernelle Lynn Badbear, who was convicted and is currently serving a 10-year federal prison sentence for the crime.

The bigger picture: The gesture underscores the close-knit nature of the trucking community and the role such acts of kindness can play in healing and awareness within the industry.

Events like these also shed light on broader societal issues, such as the plight of missing or murdered indigenous people, offering an opportunity for education and reflection.

Ada Bends, Freman's aunt, emphasized the dual purpose of remembrance and awareness, extending their personal loss into a communal call for vigilance and support.

The Sovereign Bodies Institute highlighted the importance of drawing attention to MMIP-related crimes, which often affect communities disproportionately.

All truckers passing through were welcomed to partake in the feast and reflect on the dedication and challenges faced by their fellow drivers.