St. Bernard of Menthon was a Christian monk born in 923 AD in Menthon-Saint-Bernard, France. He is best known for founding the Great St. Bernard Pass hospice in the Alps, which provided shelter and assistance to travelers crossing the treacherous mountain pass. His efforts helped save many lives, especially during harsh winter conditions. St. Bernard dedicated his life to helping others and is often associated with the St. Bernard dog breed, which was bred by monks to assist in rescue missions. He was canonized as a saint in 1681, and his feast day is celebrated on June 15.