[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 165 (Thursday, November 5, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1603]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING THE CAREER OF BEN FLANAGAN

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. KENNY MARCHANT

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, November 5, 2015

  Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the long, 
successful career of Ben Flanagan, who served the Grapevine Police 
Department for 25 distinguishable years.
  Ben served the Grapevine Police Department in several capacities from 
1989 to 2014, ultimately retiring as Assistant Chief of Police. Born 
and raised in Grapevine, Texas, Ben graduated from Grapevine High 
School in 1970. Upon graduation, he joined the US Army for two years 
before attending Tarrant County Community College where he studied 
political science. Ben would then serve the Lewisville Police 
Department for one year before beginning his exceptional career with 
the Grapevine Police Department.
  The career Ben made for himself is full of honors, success, and hard 
work as he held seven different positions within the department, 
quickly moving up the ranks. In 1989, Ben began as a patrol officer and 
eventually retired as Assistant Chief of Police, acquiring an 
impressive resume along the way. Ben was honored as officer of the year 
in 1991 and detective of the year in 1994. He also participated in 
hostage negotiations and was a member of the SWAT team. Ben played a 
pivotal role in shaping the police department into the institution it 
is today, as well as helping keep the city safe for its residents, 
businesses, and visitors.
  Ben's North Texas roots are deep, as he grew up fishing the shores of 
Lake Grapevine and his father had farmed the land that is now part of 
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. To this day he enjoys the 
outdoors and many of its activities including fishing and hunting. Ben 
accumulated 46 commendations during his career, including an 
outstanding service award in 2004 from Mothers Against Drunk Driving. 
Ben's dedication and positive attitude is known throughout the 
community and travelled with him during his tenure. It is an honor and 
a privilege to recognize one of the great citizens of the 24th 
district.
  Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure to recognize the career of Ben 
Flanagan. I ask all of my distinguished colleagues to join me in 
celebrating this milestone in his remarkable life.

                          ____________________