David Beaudoin
I'm deeply sorry for your loss, and I'm not able to make LTC Flanagan's services. I am sure you'll hear this a lot, but Colonel Flanagan was my science teacher at St. Joe's from 93-96, and at that time he was the only West Point grad I knew of. I remember him going back and forth with us one class about education, and someone must have struck a chord because he went on to discuss how selective the admission process was for USMA, and how he was chosen and recommended by his Congressman to enter. At age 12 I was floored by it, and that impression stayed with me as I applied and was accepted for the 2004 West Point class a few years later. Knowing my favorite science teacher was accepted made the impossible seem possible for me. Now looking at his obit and seeing his career summarized in a paragraph, I realize how similiar my choices were like his. Like LTC Flanagan I also branched Infantry, I also hope to stick in for a full active duty career and continue to fight when required. I can imagine the hardships your family may have faced in those times of separation because I ask the same of mine today. Knowing LTC Flanagan left the service and chose to teach in a Catholic School gives me great peace of mind, as I am hopeful to continue to serve the Church and community in a similiar way someday. His life continues to be a strong example for me and my family, and I hope knowing this now helps with your grief. He was a great teacher then, and still serves as a great role model now for a younger veteran. I only wish I reached out to him over the past few years. Knowing him contributed to who I am today. Respectfully, Major David Beaudoin Operations Officer, 2-87 Infantry, 10th Mountain Division St. Joe's '96, West Point '04