HOLYOKE, MA (WGGB/WSHM) - Every year during the holiday season, the Saint Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke honors Irish Americans, who have significantly excelled in areas such as politics, sports, arts, and many other field with the John F. Kennedy National Award.

This year, the award was granted to law enforcement leader and public safety innovator Jim McDonnell, who is originally from Brookline, Mass.

“I just want to thank everybody for coming out today. It’s been a great day today. And we’re truly honored to have Jim McDonnell and his wife Kathy here in the city of Holyoke. They’re having a great time, and we’re truly honored to have them here,” said Jim Wildman, the President of the Saint Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke

McDonnell began his law enforcement career in 1981 spending nearly 30 years with the Los Angeles Police Department.

During his time, expanded community engagement and strengthed trust across Los Angeles’ diverse neighborhoods while seeing a significant reduction in crime while serving as Chief of Police in Long Beach, California.

“it’s a tremendous honor for me. I grew up in Brookline, Mass. That’s where John F. Kennedy was born. Not very far from where I grew up. And to be able to be honored with the award in his name in a city like Holyoke, where they take this so seriously to preserve the Irish heritage, tradition, and culture. My parents are both from Ireland, Galway, and Dublin. And for me and my family, this is a tremendous honor.” McDonnell said.

McDonnell also said, “as a first-generation Irish American, this recognition reflects the values of service and community that my parents instilled in me. I am honored to join such a distinguished group of past recipients and grateful to the Saint Patrick’s Committee and the City of Holyoke for this extraordinary honor.”

You can hear his full message and learn more about the incredible work he has done over the years by visiting their website.

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