Leadership Wilkes-Barre is proud to announce that Mr. Patrick J. Solano is the recipient of the 2012 Community Leadership Award. Mr. Solano, though not always visible in the public's eye, has led an exemplary life of leadership and service. During World War II, Pat completed 23 combat missions with the Eighth U.S. Air Force Heavy Bombardment Group. For his service, he was awarded the Group Presidential Citation, the Air Force Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, and the European Combat Theatre Medal with two Bronze Stars. In his professional career he has held numerous prestigious positions, including Senior Counselor to Governor Tom Ridge and Governor Mark Schweiker, as well as Senior Advisor to the Pennsylvania State Senate Majority Leader, Dominick Pilleggi. Pat has also served as friend and advisor to numerous public officials and community leaders, and is always willing to share his knowledge and leadership expertise with others.

In addition to his military awards, Pat has also been the recipient of numerous other awards, including the Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Commerce's Lifetime Achievement Award, the Pennsylvania Environmental Council's Thomas P. Shelbourne Environmental Leadership Award, a Doctor of Humane Letters from Misericordia University, and the United States Army Corps of Engineers Commander's Award. Mr. Solano resides in Pittston Township with his wife Marie. They are the parents of six daughters and have 11 grandchildren.

Mr. Solano will be presented the 2012 Community Leadership Award during the Annual Leadership Wilkes-Barre Mid-Winter Cocktail Party which will be held on February 3, 2012 at the Westmoreland Club. Reservations are $40 per person and may be made by contacting the Leadership Wilkes-Barre office at (570) 823-2101 ext 135.