450 Millennium - A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine GOVERNMENT AND MILITARY Dedicated to serving his country, Gary L. Flaherty built his career as a member of the United States Army and organizations benefiting its veterans. Raised in a small West Virginia town with a strong culture of patriotism, he followed his brother and uncles into the military in 1961 at the age of 17, when he enlisted in the United States Army. Throughout his career in the armed forces, Mr. Flaherty set himself apart for his integrity, leadership and commitment to others while serving in Korea and in a combat role in Vietnam. For his service, Mr. Flaherty was decorated with a Bronze Star, a Soldier’s Medal for heroism in Vietnam, and a Legion of Merit for his administrative contributions to revitalizing the Army Non-Commissioned Officer’s Academy in Korea. He also earned a Junior Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Young Man of America distinction for his civilian work while enlisted. He retired from active duty in 1984 at the rank of command sergeant major, the second-highest rank available to enlisted persons in the branch. Mr. Flaherty continued to support the United States military through the first Gulf War, providing chemical and biological defense services in the southeast, which led him to later operate as a town supervisor. Since 2013, he has advocated for veterans as the director of the Columbia County Veterans Service Agency, coordinating outreach efforts to ensure that veterans and their families have access to the benefits to which they are entitled. His role has included overseeing food pantry and equine therapy programs, and he has provided aid to veterans seeking assistance across the United States, gaining the attention of the United States Secretary of Veterans Affairs. In recognition of his lifelong commitment to others, Mr. Flaherty has received more than 100 community service awards, including induction into the New York State Veterans Hall of Fame and citations from the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion. Today, he remains active in numerous veterans’ organizations, in addition to his extensive volunteer work for the Special Olympics. Millennium Magazine Featured Listee GARY L. FLAHERTY DIRECTOR Columbia County Veterans Service Agency Hudson, NY
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