Throwback Thursday – 1919: Knights honored at the Peace Convention

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“France and America Honor the Order”, “Supreme Knight Flaherty receives Cross of Legion of Honor and Distinguished Service Medal in recognition of war work of Knights of Columbus” were the headlines for the 1919 annual meeting, in Buffalo, dubbed the “Peace Convention”.

Supreme Knight Flaherty accepted the honor from the Secretary of War Newton Baker pinned the Distinguished Service Medal. Supreme Chaplain Patrick McGivney, brother of founder Father Michael McGivney is at right.

Throughout World War I and with the Army of Occupation after the hostilities, the Knights of Columbus were there, providing material and spiritual comfort to the military away from home, with the slogan “Everybody Welcome, Everything Free”. Today the Knights continue their support, for example with the Warriors to Lourdes pilgrimage.

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