NANTICOKE — The Honorable Patrick J. Solano has been named as honorary chairperson of the Luzerne County Community College 50th Anniversary Golden Gala to be held 5:30 p.m., Oct. 7, at the Mohegan Sun Pocono Hotel and Convention Center. Entertainment for the event will be Eddie Day and The Starfires.

Solano was appointed to the LCCC Board of Trustees and served as a member of the finance committee, academic committee and legislative committee.

A graduate of Pittston Township High School and the U.S. Air Force School of Engineering, Amarillo Air Force Base, Texas, he served in the U.S. Air Force with the Eighth U.S. Air Force Heavy Bombardment Group and completed 23- combat missions. He was awarded the Group Presidential Citation, the Air Force Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, and the European Combat Theatrical Medal with two Bronze Stars.

Solano had a long career with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and served as a member of numerous boards as well as being the recipient of countless awards throughout the Commonwealth.

Related Video

He resides in Pittston with his wife, Marie and are the parents of six daughters, 11 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

A portion of the gala proceeds will go toward a scholarship for veterans in Solano’s name at LCCC.

For more information, to contribute to the scholarship or to make reservations, contact the LCCC foundation office at 570-740-0731 or e-mail jyuhas@luzerne.edu.