Frank Droney, a resident of West Hartford, has been named grand marshal of the 2025 Greater Hartford St. Patrick’s Parade.

Submitted

The Greater Hartford St. Patrick’s Parade Committee is proud to announce that Frank Droney has been selected as the Grand Marshal for the 2025 St. Patrick’s Parade. A proud Irish immigrant and pillar of the local Irish American community, Frank embodies the spirit and traditions of Ireland with a life dedicated to service, culture, and community.

Born in Bellharbour, County Clare, Ireland, to James and Mary Ann Droney, Frank immigrated to the United States in 1948.   Settling in Connecticut, Frank quickly immersed himself in the local Irish-American community, becoming a lifelong member of the Irish American Home Society (IAHS) and actively supporting cultural organizations like Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann. Frank has always been a strong advocate for Irish culture and heritage, particularly through his dedication to Irish set dancing and ceili programs throughout the Northeast.

Frank’s service extends far beyond his cultural contributions. He proudly served in the U.S. Army Infantry, earning the Combat Infantry Badge during the Korean War before becoming a U.S. citizen. Following his military service, Frank joined the Hartford Fire Department, where he served with distinction for 33 years.

He earned the prestigious Medal of Valor for rescuing an elderly couple from a burning home.

Frank’s personal story is deeply rooted in family and community. A devoted husband to the late Veronica Curtin Droney, Frank is the proud father of his daughter Debra and grandfather to Chelsea and Tyler. Residing in West Hartford, Frank continues to inspire with his commitment to helping others, both within the Irish-American community and beyond.

The Greater Hartford St. Patrick’s Parade Committee is honored to recognize Frank Droney’s remarkable life and contributions. His selection as Grand Marshal celebrates not only his Irish heritage but also his profound impact on the Hartford community.

The West Hartford Parade Committee has announced that nonprofit Ball 4 a Cure and its founders will be honored at a fundraiser and reception on Jan. 25, 2025.

Join us on March 15, 2025 as we celebrate Frank Droney and at the 2025 Greater Hartford St. Patrick’s Parade.

For more information about the parade, visit: irishamericanparade.com.

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