Special Awards

Beginning in 2017, the Cowcatcher Division, of the Lone Star Region, of the National Model Railroad Association, initiated Special Awards to recognize those who have set themselves apart and have provided service, leadership, and dedication to the division. These awards specifically identify three categories: Service, Overall Contribution and Leadership and finally Craftsmanship. We plan on honoring those individuals who have earned these special awards for years to come.

Jim Norwood Award for Member of the Year

The Jim Norwood Member of the Year Award – For decades Jim Norwood supported Division 1 with his participation. He was admired by all and his kindness helped more than just a few. He hosted frequent operating sessions on his layout which depicted the Kansas City Southern. To remember Jim, we now have an award in his name honoring the member who has shown exemplary leadership and service in the past year, as well as preceding years.

2017		Mike Corley
2018		Dick Brannan
2019		David Kranda
2020		David Crumpton
2021		Darrell Cowles
2022		Russell Gifford
2023		Steve Gratke

John Garfield Award for Volunteer of the Year

The John Garfield Volunteer of the Year Award – For years, John Garfield has been a stalwart when needed on any volunteer assignment. It is only fitting that an award bearing his name honor the outstanding volunteer of the year.

2017		John Garfield
2018		David Grien
2019		Joe Liesing
2020		Chris Galvin
2021		Jay Waters
2022		Steve Gratke
2023		Chris Mahan

Leo Palitti Award for Craftsman of the Year

The Leo Palitti Craftsman of the Year award – Starting in 2020, the division chose to memorialize another beloved member. Leo Palitti was a devoted member to the hobby, division and his club, the Texas Western Model Railroad Club. Leo’s craftsmanship was superior and the list of awards garnered by his work would fill volumes. To honor Leo and the individual who has continued his legacy of outstanding modeling we have created the Leo Palitti Craftsman of the Year Award.

2020		Dr. Michael Ross
2021		David Crumpton
2022		Cole Rash
2023		Russell Gifford

Director's Award for Outstanding Leadership Team Member

The Division Director's Award for Outstanding Leadership Team Member was established in 2021 to recognize a leader whose responsible performance went beyond expectation with results producing unique, never before contributions to the betterment of the Cowcatcher Division and its membership.

2021		David Kranda
2022		David Hager
2023		David Kranda

Special Appreciation Award

Presented to Mike Mackey, MMR, as grateful appreciation for his outstanding display of leadership and enthusiasm as Director of the Cowcatcher Division from 2017 through 2022. Mike has built this division up making it the vibrant organization it now is. He is a mentor to us all.