The Pennsylvania Society announced Monday it will award a special citation to outgoing Pennsylvania Supreme Court Chief Justice Ronald Castille at its 116th annual dinner December 13, at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City.
Castille has served as a justice of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court since 1994, and its Chief Justice since 2008. He has reached the Court's mandatory retirement age and will be stepping down December 31.
"Ron's selfless service to country and to Commonwealth reflects the highest ideals of The Pennsylvania Society," said PA Society President Nicholas DeBenedictis. "It is only fitting that when Pennsylvanians come together this December, The Society acknowledge his career and thank him for his service."
At its dinner this December, The Pennsylvania Society will award its 2014 Gold Medal to James E. Rohr, retired PNC Executive Chairman, Financial Services Group. The Gold Medal for Distinguished Achievement is annually awarded to a prominent person in recognition of leadership, citizenship and contributions to the arts, science, education and industry.
Castille, who lost his right leg in combat in the Vietnam War, is a recipient of the Bronze Star with combat "V" and two Purple Hearts. Castille returned home and received his J.D. from the University of Virginia School of Law in 1971. That same year, he arrived in Philadelphia and became an Assistant District Attorney.
In 1986, Castille was elected District Attorney for the City of Philadelphia, holding that office until 1991. Two years later, he was elected to the state Supreme Court – the oldest appellate court in the U.S.
"It's a tremendous honor to be recognized by a distinguished group such as The Pennsylvania Society, one that has meant so much to the Commonwealth for more than 100 years, and to me since I began coming to the annual dinner in 1985," said Castille.
