Mr. Flaherty's service took him to Vietnam, where he received the Soldier's Medal for Heroism for risking his life to save fellow soldiers from friendly fire.
CANAAN, NY, August 21, 2023 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Gary L. Flaherty has been inducted into Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.
Following a 23-year career in the U.S. Army from which he retired as Command Sergeant Major, Mr. Flaherty assumed leadership of the Columbia County Veterans Services Agency. Since stepping into the role in 2013, he has led the agency in its outreach efforts, ensuring that veterans, along with their families and widows, receive the compensation and benefits they deserve. Among Mr. Flaherty's most treasured successes are his agency's Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program, a widows' program, and an equine therapy program, both of which have touched the lives of numerous former service members. Notably, his accomplishments on behalf of veterans have earned him a personal visit from the U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs.
Born one of nine children to beloved parents, Mr. Flaherty has fond memories of his childhood in West Virginia. A high-achieving child, he was cited on CBS News in 1968 and was selected as the Junior Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Young Man of America in 1973. He was drawn to military service at a young age and enlisted in the U.S. Army at 17, embarking upon a career that would take him to the highest enlisted rank in the Army.
Mr. Flaherty's service took him to Vietnam, where he received the Soldier's Medal for Heroism for risking his life to save fellow soldiers from friendly fire. Throughout his military career, he earned numerous commendations, including the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, and six Army Commendation Medals. After he retired from the Army as a civilian, he provided chemical protection equipment to the Saudi National Guard.
Upon the conclusion of the Gulf War, Mr. Flaherty was elected town supervisor, marking his entry into public life. This involvement continues today with service as chairman of New York's 19th Congressional District Veterans' Advisory Council. HE previously served on the board of the Berkshire Farm Center & Services for Youth.
Mr. Flaherty is the recipient of the Young Republicans of Columbia County New York's 2023 Lincoln Award and was inducted into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame in 2017. He is active with the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, American Legion and Vietnam Veterans of America, and is a longtime volunteer for the Special Olympics. He holds a bachelor's degree in business from Columbia College.
He will be marrying Marietta on September 30, 2023.
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