LYNN — The Friendly Knights of St. Patrick honored District Fire Chief John F. Lynch IV with the 2025 Irishmen of the Year Award and recognized David J. Solimine Jr. with the Randazzo-Solimine Community Service Award Thursday night at the Hibernian Hall.
The annual event, now in its 77th year, celebrates Irish heritage and raises funds for scholarships benefiting local students.
Lynch, a longtime firefighter and Friendly Knights member since 2009, became the first firefighter in the event’s history to receive the Irishmen of the Year Award. “Irish and firefighters go together like peanut butter and jelly,” he said. “To be the first one means a great deal.”
Solimine Jr.’s recognition was particularly meaningful, as the award is named in part after his father, David Solimine Sr., a past recipient.
“We’ve always been involved in the community,” he said. “The Friendly Knights naming an award after my dad and then awarding it to me is truly special.”
He highlighted his ongoing work redeveloping Union Hospital, including new homes, senior services, and an upcoming 150-unit affordable housing project.
His father and longstanding member, Solimine Sr., reflected on the moment with pride. “He’s one of my best friends who happens to be my son,” he said. “It’s a great honor.”
The evening was dedicated to the memory of Patrick R. Gecoya, a beloved educator, coach, and Friendly Knights photographer and member. In his honor, the organization announced the creation of a scholarship in his name at Lynn Tech, ensuring that his legacy of service to students will continue.
His wife, Linda Gecoya, spoke about what this night would have meant to him.
“He loved this organization and loved being part of it,” she said. “For Patrick’s name to live on and for people to recognize how much he did for Lynn and the school system — it’s touching.” She added, “If he were here, I know he’d be behind the camera, capturing every moment. That’s just who he was.”
Lynn Mayor Jared C. Nicholson praised the Friendly Knights for their dedication to both tradition and giving back to the city.
“This is an event where folks come together, celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, celebrate the tradition of the Friendly Knights, and raise money for a great cause,” Nicholson said. “We’re supporting Lynn students pursuing their dreams, and it’s a really special tradition that it’s an honor to be a part of.”
State Sen. Brendan Crighton, a longtime supporter of the Friendly Knights and member, emphasized the organization’s lasting impact.
“The entire committee is committed to honoring great people, but also to giving back through scholarships,” he said. “This is one of many great St. Patrick traditions in the city, but certainly one that helps our young people afford higher education and continue to grow.”
The event, emceed by Friendly Knights Chairman Bill McDonald, brought together city officials, community leaders, and longtime members. McDonald reflected on the significance of his role, calling it an honor to carry on the organization’s legacy.
“If you had told me I would be chairman when I first walked into a Friendly Knights event nearly 30 years ago, I wouldn’t have believed it,” he said. “But this group means so much to me — it’s about celebrating our Irish heritage while making sure we give back to the next generation.”
McDonald emphasized the organization’s mission of supporting students in need. “We started in 1947 as a small gathering,” he said. “Now, thanks to the generosity of our members and donors, we’re able to give back in a big way.”
When asked what he hoped attendees took away from the night, McDonald kept it simple: “Laughter.”
The night was a celebration of service, tradition, and community, marking another successful year for the Friendly Knights of St. Patrick.
