As we start the new fraternal year we have a special project from the Supreme Master. We are to perform a Census of Korean and Vietnam War Veterans. Below is documentation that covers the time frame and what the census is about. What I need is name, branch of service, which war, and years of service (1965, 66, 67 etc.). If you know of a Brother Sir Knight who has passed but served, please let me know as much as you can, we wish to include all possible in the census. You may provide the information to me at a meeting, I will have a form to fill out or feel free to email me. When our list is “complete” I would like to post it on our website if the membership is okay with this, we should always remember those who have and who currently serve, thank you all!

Knights of Columbus Fourth Degree
Korean & Vietnam War
Census Program

Objective: The Fourth Degree will conduct a census of the membership to establish
a record of service in the Korean and Vietnam Wars.
Purpose: Following the World Wars, the Order 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.
Significance: 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.
Considerations: 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.
Execution: Assemblies working in conjunction with their assigned councils will
conduct a census of their membership using the attached form. Where possible,
documented service of deceased members will be recorded. Guidelines for the
census will be forthcoming.
Qualifications: 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.
Timeline: 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