Admiral Michael F.D. "Luke" Flaherty
Continuing with the Cherry Street residents, a young man, neighbor to both George Lawrence and Hugh Drysdale, would also gain some notoriety. Using his connection to the two local gentlemen, he would enter the Naval Academy and enjoy a long, distinguished career with the U.S. Navy.
Michael Francis Donald Flaherty was born on 10 December 1904 in North Adams, Massachusetts. He was the son of Michael B. and Margaret McGrath Flaherty. Known to his intimates as "Luke", he attended Drury High school in North Adams. Flaherty attended the US Naval Academy, Annapolis, Maryland and graduated from with the degree of Bachelor of Science. In gratitude for his assistance, he sent Hugh a copy of the Lucky Bag of Nineteen Twenty Eight, the Academy yearbook, with a personal note below his photograph.
Flaherty became Rear Admiral on 1 August 1956 and in June 1950 assumed command of the USS Noble. On 1 July 1962 Flaherty's title was changed to Commander Cruiser-Destroyer Flotilla Twelve. Towards the end of his carrier Flaherty was awarded the Legion of Merit. Rear Admiral Flaherty died in Virginia Beach, Virginia on 17 December 1993, leaving behind two sons.