WASHINGTON, June 20, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) today announced the selection of Forensic Chemist Lloyd Erwin, ATF Forensic Science Laboratory, Atlanta, to receive the distinguished Ron Purvis Memorial Award from the International Association of Bomb Technicians and Investigators (IABTI). The IABTI will present the award today at its annual international training conference which is being held in Sibiu, Romania. Erwin will accept the award at a later date.
"Lloyd Erwin has consistently promoted the expansion of knowledge within his field, both domestically and internationally. He has authored or co-authored numerous publications which are read and used by chemists and investigators around the world, and he has worked on highly publicized cases such as the Eric Rudolph serial bombings in Atlanta, among others," said Rick Holgate, assistant director/chief information officer, Office of Science and Technology.
"Lloyd Erwin is dedicated to the exchange of information within the field of explosives. ATF is proud of his accomplishments and this much-deserved recognition by the IABTI," said ATF Acting Director Kenneth Melson.
Erwin specializes in the identification of explosive materials, the examination of explosives and incendiary debris, and the identification of improvised explosive device components and related trace evidence. He began his professional career at ATF graduating in 1964, has been a member of the ATF National Response Team and the IABTI since 1979. Throughout his career, he has fostered positive working relationships with countless professionals by providing assistance to federal, state, local and international law enforcement personnel regarding bombing investigations and evidence handling. Erwin's expertise in bomb component identification is sought after to assist in the processing of bombing crime scenes across the country.
The Ron Purvis Memorial Award is presented in memory of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police officer and IABTI member whose duty and overriding aim was directed toward improving the safety of technicians and is intended to recognize an IABTI member who exemplifies the qualities of strength, leadership and motivation.
Contact: Public Affairs Division
(202) 648-8500
www.atf.gov
SOURCE Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
