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“A distinguished Vietnam veteran with an infectious personality, John Flowers’ commitment to our nation and to our local community extended far beyond his time in the service,” Serino said on the floor of the state Senate. “John stood for hope, he stood for happiness and he stood for humanity across the Hudson Valley. He was a ray of light in the darkest days of more people than he will ever know, and I can think of few more deserving of this distinct honor.”
The medal is New York's highest honor and is awarded as a commendation for exceptional, heroic or humanitarian acts on behalf of New Yorkers.
Flowers moved to Poughkeepsie in the early 1950s and graduated from Poughkeepsie High School. He worked for more than three decades as a self-employed general contractor.
Flowers worked as a community organizer and philanthropist and was the force behind the Christmas in February celebration, which brought teams of volunteers to Castle Point VA Hospital. He also started the community's first Father's Day parade.
“His family is here with us today and I know that John is smiling down on them," said Serino. "Not because we are here paying tribute to his life and legacy, but because they have continued his incredible work without missing a beat. This award belongs just as much to them. I consider it an honor to not only have known John Flowers, but to have been lucky enough to call him a friend. May his legacy serve to inspire others throughout our community to continuously put others first.”
For additional information on John’s life and legacy and his family’s continued work, visit www.flowersfamilypartnership.com.
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