GHENT — Command Sgt. Maj. Gary L. Flaherty, who became a hero when he ran into a Draft Board office and removed a live grenade that Vietnam War protesters tossed through a window, was honored Thursday at the Columbia County Young Republican 60th annual Lincoln Awards Dinner at Kozel’s Restaurant.
Flaherty served in the U.S. Army from 1961 to 1984, rising from the rank of Private to his retirement as a Command Sergeant Major.
Flaherty’s military career included stops in Germany, Vietnam and Korea. Today, Flaherty serves as the Columbia County Veterans Service Agency director.
Flaherty reflected on his military career and his achievements throughout the years.
“One of my highlights was when I did my tour of Vietnam I was selected as Active Duty Soldier of the Year several times,” he said. “Then in 1972, I was selected as an Outstanding Young Man of America. I had a great career. I loved being in the Army.”
More than 200 family, friends and well-wishers packed Kozel’s to greet Flaherty, thank him for his service and voice their gratitude for his dedication to protecting the nation throughout his military life and his civilian career as an aide to veterans.
“It’s a real honor from that standpoint alone,” he said. “I lived my life in the Army by being a good soldier and being a good leader, and now I spend my life taking care of our veterans and their widows.
Special guest U.S. Rep. Marc Molinaro talked about the work Flaherty has done in the community helping veterans get back on their feet by telling the story of the origin of the term “cutting through the red tape.”
“It dates back to the 16th century,” Molinaro said. “Men of the Union Army, when they completed their service to get the benefits that their loved ones would’ve earned, they had to present their papers. Their papers were often tied in red tape. During the Lincoln presidency you would have the red tape cut and the benefits given to the widow and the service member would be authorized. Gary Flaherty is a living embodiment of cutting through that red tape, he’s the living embodiment of the sentiment Lincoln had, which was to heal the nation, and to heal those who fought against one another. Recognizing him is very special. I’ve known him for 30 years, and I just really think recognizing him was so very fitting this year and it’s special to see. He’s a wonderful man who does really good work for the veterans of the county.”
Noting the sacrifices Flaherty and countless other veterans made for the nation, Molinaro reflected on the role veterans played in his life.
“Both my grandfathers served in World War II,” Molinaro said. “Both shared with me stories of sacrifice and service. They were both very influential in my childhood. Growing up I often regretted that I didn’t choose military service because I find it to be the highest form of service. I certainly admired and respected those who do. I say this very sincerely: American servicemen and women are by far the bravest and most charitable the world has ever known. American servicemen and women had to often step up in moments of great strife and violence. They have always been a force for good and have sought to bring peace. There hasn’t been a more charitable and more courageous group of service men and women. We should be grateful; they safeguard our freedoms and when they return home they should be treated with the utmost respect.”