Summit Hill native Edward O’Brien of Allentown was named Irishman of the Year by the Ancient Order of Hibernians, Daniel Rice Division 1, on Friday night during a St. Patrick’s Day Gala and awards program held in the Van Bittner Union Hall, Bethlehem.

O’Brien, a Steelworker since 1964, current assistant to the director, United Steelworkers of America, and a union negotiator since 1969, was honored for his outstanding contributions to fostering Irish history, culture and tradition.

He was presented the Irishman of the Year plaque by Bethlehem policeman and AOH member Danny Jones.