Phil Simmons was a Rising Sun member who lost his battle with Leukemia. Most who knew Phil wouldn’t have known he had a disease though, as his enthusiasm and positive attitude towards Toyota Land Cruisers and Rising Sun prevailed at every interaction.

Phil’s passing was a significant loss to our group, at a time when our club was growing and membership was flourishing, the event was humbling and reflective, with an emptiness created almost beyond description. And so our leadership chose to memorialize Phil’s contribution to our club and community by creating an annual award that commemorates a member who has exhibits outstanding behavior congruent with Phil’s own. This highly regarded, and most prestigious award is awarded annually, chosen by the Club Commander, other officers, and past recipients.

The award is intended to recognize one member who has gone above and beyond, acting in the spirit that has become Phil’s legacy. These members are revered to embody the selfless, inclusive, and positive sprit that we will always remember about Phil Simmons, and regardless personal spiritual beliefs we all agree that in some way, Phil is looking down on each one of them smiling, and tipping his Cruise Moab hat, as his spirit lives on among each one of them.

Key behavioral characteristics of members who have received the Phil Simmons award:

- Positive, welcoming behavior at club meetings and events.

- Outstanding volunteer work for Rising Sun, TLCA, COVCO, Blue Ribbon, and other organizations dedicated to preserving our hobby.

- Enthusiasm for all things Land Cruiser, TLCA, and Rising Sun, and the ability to inspire that in others.