Lakenheath warrior wins Air Force safety award

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Torri Ingalsbe
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  Master Sgt. Timothy Imel, 48th Maintenance Squadron weapons standardization superintendent, received an Outstanding RiderCoach award from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation Nov. 13. 

Every year, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation recognizes outstanding achievement and excellence in rider education and training by honoring agencies, programs and individuals who facilitate motorcyclist safety. There are five areas in which military services can compete: Outstanding Military Base, Outstanding RiderCoaches, Outstanding Military Branch and Outstanding Press Award. 

Sergeant Imel is an instructor for the Basic and Experienced Riders Courses offered here and has been certified as a RiderCoach since 2003. 

"I don't think I did anything special to receive this award," Sergeant Imel said. "I'm humbled to receive recognition for something that I find so enjoyable." 

Sergeant Imel said although there is a curriculum to follow for the courses, they're more student-based, with students and instructors alike learning from each other. 

"We teach a lot of different skills, especially riding to be seen," Sergeant Imel said. 

He said when the opportunity to teach something that he enjoys so much came up, he jumped at the chance.

"The awards are our way of providing recognition and a thank-you to those dedicated, hard-working and often unsung champions of rider education and training," said Tim Buche, MSF president. "Whether the award recognizes an individual or an organization, behind it all you'll find people devoted to the common goal of motorcyclist safety." 

An evaluation committee composed of experienced professionals in the motorcycle safety field selected the award winners from nominations received from the training community. The committee of eight included three MSF staff members and four state administrators. 

"It's nice to get a pat on the back for a job well done and the best part is that there are several other instructors just as deserving," Sergeant Imel said. 

Since 1973, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation has set internationally recognized standards that promote the safety of motorcyclists with rider education courses, operator licensing tests and public information programs. The MSF works with the federal government, state agencies, military and others to offer training for all skill levels so riders can enjoy a lifetime of safe, responsible motorcycling.