[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 54 (Tuesday, March 25, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E251]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 CELEBRATING JOHN J. FLYNN AS THE IRISHMAN OF THE YEAR BY THE AMHERST 
                             GAELIC LEAGUE

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. TIMOTHY M. KENNEDY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 25, 2025

  Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize John 
J. Flynn, who served as the 41st District Attorney of Erie County, New 
York. Mr Flynn is celebrated as Irishman of the Year by the Amherst 
Gaelic League at their 51st Irish Appreciation Party, an honor that 
reflects his distinguished career and significant contributions to the 
community.
  Mr. Flynn, a Western New York native, graduated from East Aurora High 
School and Bowling Green State University with a degree in Political 
Science. He then joined the U.S. Navy, serving as Assistant Supply 
Officer aboard the USS Cleveland (LPD-7) in San Diego, deploying to the 
Western Pacific and serving during the Gulf War. After his naval 
service, he attended the University at Buffalo School of Law, 
continuing his Naval Reserve duties. Upon graduating in 1995, he 
returned to active duty in the Navy Judge Advocate General's Corps as a 
Navy attorney at Pensacola Naval Air Station, Florida, and was 
appointed as a Special Assistant United States Attorney.
  In 2001, Mr. Flynn returned to Western New York, joining the Erie 
County District Attorney's Office as an Assistant District Attorney and 
quickly rising to the Homicide Bureau. He then entered private 
practice, working as a personal injury attorney and lecturing at SUNY 
Buffalo State from 2002 to 2016. Mr. Flynn served in the Naval Reserves 
until his retirement in 2017 with the rank of Commander and four 
additional Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals. His public 
service began in 2003 with his election to the Town of Tonawanda Town 
Board, followed by appointments as Town Justice in 2006, acting Buffalo 
City Court Judge, and Town Attorney in 2010. In 2016, Mr. Flynn was 
elected as Erie County District Attorney, taking office on January 1, 
2017, and was re-elected in 2020 for a second term.
  Mr. Speaker, John J. Flynn's remarkable career and dedication to 
public service stand as a powerful symbol of integrity, commitment, and 
leadership. His tireless work as District Attorney, his service in the 
Navy, and his deep involvement in the community exemplify his 
unwavering commitment to justice and progress. Mr. Flynn's recognition 
as Irishman of the Year by the Amherst Gaelic League is a fitting 
tribute to his lifelong contributions to both his heritage and the 
greater community. His efforts for justice, inclusivity, and service 
inspire us to embrace the values of unity and leadership, working 
toward a brighter, more united future for everyone.

                          ____________________