Soldiers & Sailors Announces 2010 Friend & Patriot of the Year

University of Pittsburgh receives the top honor.

 Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum is proud to announce that the University of Pittsburgh has been named as its 2010 Friend & Patriot of the Year. The award will be presented to the University at Soldiers & Sailors' Cannon Ball Centennial Celebration, October 9, 2010.

October 2010 marks the 100th Anniversary of Soldiers & Sailors opening its doors to the public. "With the celebration of the centennial, there was more to consider when choosing the recipient this year." stated Casey Patterson, Chief of Staff. "While this annual award is intended to recognize long-term support of veterans and the museum, it also has to make sense with the history of the hall. The best candidate was literally right in front of us."

The University of Pittsburgh has been named as one of the country's most military friendly schools with 350 registered veteran students earning their undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree. The University's new Office of Veterans Services has a mission of assisting veterans, guardsmen, and reservists in receiving military benefits, facilitating their transition into University life, and supporting their ongoing academic success. There is also a rich history and bond between Pitt and Soldiers & Sailors, being neighbors in Oakland for 100 years, and supporting Soldiers & Sailors by holding events and graduations in the Hall several times a year.  And starting this fall, the Oakland campus Pitt students can tour the museum at no cost, through an agreement between the University's Pitt Arts program and Soldiers & Sailors.

Past recipients of the Friends & Patriot of the year awards include Ambridge Regional Distribution & Manufacturing Center and President Gene Pash in 2009, the Allegheny Regional Asset District in 2008, Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato in 2007, and Pennsylvania Senator Jane Clare Orie in 2006.