Michigan District 1 Help Requests and News

Following the World Wars, the Knights of Columbus documented war service by its members. The results of these efforts are recorded in the archives at the Blessed Michael J. McGivney Pilgrimage Center. Similar efforts were not conducted following either the Korean or Vietnam Wars. Both the Korean and Vietnam Wars marked a significant departure in how troops served and returned from war, as service was no longer for the duration. Gone were the hero’s welcome on return. Vietnam veterans in particular returned to a hostile and divided nation, where they were either overlooked or criticized for their service.

The Supreme Council gave direction to the Supreme Master to conduct a census of those that served in the Korean and Vietnam wars such that these efforts can also be recorded in the archives. Note that the Korean War commenced in 1950, making the approximate minimum age of surviving veterans ninety-one. Similarly, the approximate minimum age of surviving Vietnam veterans serving from 1965-1973 is 68-76. It is imperative to gather this information at this point before it is lost forever.

Assemblies are directed to work in conjunction with their assigned councils to conduct a census of their membership using the provided forms. Where possible, documented service of deceased members will be recorded.

Inclusion in the census shall be limited to veterans meeting the requirements established by Congress for the Korean and Vietnam Service Medals, to wit 25 June 1950-27 July 1953 for Korea and 3 July 1965-28 March 1973 for Vietnam.

The program will culminate with a Mass at the National Basilica of the Immaculate Conception on Saturday, April 26, 2025, in recognition of the 50th Anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War (April 30, 2025). Following Mass, the Supreme Officers and Board of Directors with an escort of a 4th Degree Honor Guard will lay wreaths at the Korean and Vietnam War Memorials. Certificates recognizing service will be delivered to surviving veterans via their councils.

In April and May, assemblies, working with their councils, should have an event recognizing the veterans for their service and distribute the certificates that will be provided.

Korean and Vietnam War Census Program

Korean and Vietnam War Service Roll (Excel Spreadsheet)

Korean and Vietnam War Service Roll Example (Excel Spreadsheet)

The following item was sent to all Sir Knights with an email address. This information can also be given to prospective Fourth Degree members that may want to make the trip and participate.

You’re invited to a celebration commemorating the 125th anniversary of the Fourth Degree.

Join us Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025, at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City as we:

• Conduct the revised Exemplification of the Fourth Degree exemplification
• Attend Mass concelebrated by Cardinal Timothy Dolan, archbishop of New York, and Archbishop William Lori, our Worthy Supreme Chaplain and archbishop of Baltimore
• Dedicate a new statue of Blessed Michael McGivney
• Continue the celebration with a banquet at the New York Hilton Midtown

This milestone day is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to join the Fourth Degree if you haven’t already.

For current Fourth Degree members, it’s an equally exciting chance to renew your dedication to the Catholic virtue of patriotism.

Visit the registration page for more details and to sign up today!

Sign up now!

We can’t wait to see you at this historic event!

Fraternally,
Knights of Columbus

P.S. If you want to join the Fourth Degree but can’t travel to New York, you can join locally — contact a Fourth Degree assembly!