2025 Grand Marshal
2025
Grand Marshal
MICHAEL ANTHONY BENN
Michael and his wife Christina who is also from Limerick City, met in the Bronx, and they have been happily married for 53 years. They have built a life with their family in Rockaway Beach, NY, and have six children; Michael, Richard, William, Brendan, Patrick and Tara. They also have 11 grandchildren: Michael, Oliver, Shayla, Brendan, Ryan, Heidi, Madison, Richard, Teagan, and Mackenzie Cassidy, as well as five daughters in laws: Kimberly, Helena, Martina, Valerie, and Kristen. They have raised their family to be proud of their Irish roots, to embrace their Catholic upbringing, and celebrate their Irish culture.
Michael is the President and Chairman of Queens County St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Rockaway Beach, the 2nd largest St. Patrick’s Day parade in New York. He works effortlessly on organizing the parade year-round to ensure strong Irish leaders are recognized and celebrated. Michael has always had close ties in the Irish community and is very involved in celebrating Irish culture. He produces and directs AN Suil Na Gael TV. “The eyes of Irish” is a television show that promotes Irish culture and heritage. Live online gaeltv.com Thursday’s at 6:30pm-7:pm. Also on bronxnettv, and qptv.org, on Sunday’s and Wednesday’s.
Michael retired from the Construction Industry after spending time in two strong unions: Local 30 International Union of Operating Engineers and Local 608 Carpenters Union. He was honored by the New York City Council on three separate Occasions and received the Tom Manton award. Michael also received the Irish Ministry Shining Star, was the Chief Brehon of Coney Island’s Great Irish Fair, and Queens County AOH man of the year. Michael is a proud son of Limerick and his love for all things Irish holds no bounds.
2025 Aides to The Grand Marshal
2025
