WHEREAS, John Strothers Pearson, a retired Virginia State Police Officer, served the Commonwealth with great diligence and distinction for over three decades; and

WHEREAS, John Strothers Pearson became a member of the Virginia State Police on October 1, 1946, and worked diligently to enforce the laws of the Commonwealth and protect and serve Virginia's citizens; and

WHEREAS, John Pearson was among the first members selected to pilot the Virginia State Police aircraft in its newly formed aviation program; and

WHEREAS, well-liked and respected by his fellow officers and recognized by his superiors for his leadership and managerial skills, John Pearson was promoted to Sergeant in 1950, Lieutenant in 1954, Captain in 1961, Major in 1964, Assistant Superintendent in 1973, and Lieutenant Colonel in 1978; and

WHEREAS, throughout an outstanding career, John Pearson served his fellow citizens and the Commonwealth with great integrity and devotion to duty until his retirement in December 1984; and

WHEREAS, the sterling reputation enjoyed to this day by the Virginia State Police is based in great part on the hard work of dedicated officers like John Pearson; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly commend John Strothers Pearson for his outstanding service to the citizens of the Commonwealth as a Virginia State Police Officer; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to John Strothers Pearson as an expression of the General Assembly's admiration, respect, and gratitude.