Model railroad author, editor, and longtime Railroad Prototype Modelers advocate Tony Koester has been named the first recipient of the St. Louis RPM Modeling Community Outstanding Service Award. The award was presented during the keynote program at the 19th annual St. Louis RPM meet on July 24. Koester, who also served as the evening’s keynote speaker, received the honor before a room filled with friends and fellow prototype modelers.

The new award was established by the organizers of the St. Louis Railroad Prototype Modeler meet to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the hobby, particularly through volunteer service, education, publishing, and support of the RPM movement. Founded in 2004 under the guidance of John Golden, the St. Louis RPM team has organized 19 annual meets in the Metro East area during the past two decades.

St. Louis RPM President Lonnie Bathurst said the idea for the award grew from a desire to recognize modelers who have spent much of their lives sharing their skills and helping others become better model railroaders. Working with General Manager Jeff Kuebler and founder John Golden, the group developed criteria that considered contributions to hobby organizations, publications, clinics, and other volunteer efforts.

Although organizers considered a number of candidates from across the country, Koester quickly emerged as their choice for the inaugural award. His decades of work in the hobby press, involvement with model railroad organizations, and longstanding support of prototype modeling have made him one of the most familiar and influential figures in the hobby.

Organizers plan to expand the selection process in future years and consider nominees from across the country, including individuals whose contributions extend beyond the RPM community. Bathurst said the group may eventually recognize several recipients each year.

Additional information is available through the St. Louis RPM website.