Purpose

The Distinguished Service Award is presented annually to honor a member of the Everett Mountaineers. It symbolizes the heritage of volunteerism and leadership which is so vital to the Branch.

History

The Branch Service Award was established in 1975, but the first award was not presented until 1984. The award was a perpetual plaque, kept by the recipient for one year, with names added in subsequent years. Later, another plaque—one that the recipient could keep permanently—was added to the award. All former recipients were given their individual plaques when this practice was adopted. The recipient, whose identity was kept secret until the Awards Banquet, was originally chosen by the Executive Committee. To alleviate the awkwardness of candidates often being among those making the selection, the Award Committee was instituted in 1991. The Award was dedicated by name to Larry Ingalls in 2006.

Nominations

Executive Committee members may make nominations for the Service Award. Nominations should be presented in writing, when called for, to the Branch Chair. A statement of the nominee's contributions and/or service record is the preferred format. Nominations are kept by the Branch Chair for several years. Those from recent years are turned over to the Award Committee for the final selection.

Award

The Branch Chair appoints an Award Committee, not including any of Committee the nominees, to choose the recipient. The Award Committee is expected to research the nominations, choose a recipient, and prepare a written summary of the recipient's history with the Branch.

Eligibility

Any member of the Everett Mountaineers except the Branch Chair is eligible for the Service Award.

Presentation

The Service Award is presented at the Annual Banquet, customarily by the Branch Chair or the outgoing Branch Chair.

Recipients