The American Society for Testing and Materials International (ASTM) presented its highest honor, the Award of Merit, at a ceremony in June 2008 to John Germaine S.M. ’80, Sc.D. ‘82, a senior research associate in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. This award is given to a member for distinguished service and outstanding participation in ASTM committee activities. A geotechnical specialist, Germaine was recognized for his contributions and leadership in developing and greatly improving existing standards, and for his longtime participation in an ASTM committee on soil and rock. Over the years he has been praised for writing new standards and revising existing standards, for leadership in administrative activities, and for outstanding contributions in research and testing leading to new standards.