The Panther Valley UNICO Chapter honored Summit Hill native state police Maj. John J. Pezzent during its second annual “I Am An American Day” dinner last evening in the Nesquehoning Recreation Center.

Pezzent, who grew up in Summit Hill and rose through the state police ranks to his high position today, was presented a life membership in UNICO and a plaque for “one who has distinguished himself by meritorious service in the furtherance of UNICO ideals and in grateful recognition of the service to the community, county and state which he has rendered for the welfare of all.”

Pezzent enlisted in the former State Highway Patrol on June 13, 1928.