Knights of Columbus members who wish to live out patriotism together can join “the Fourth Degree.” Members of this degree have the special honor of holding the title “Sir Knight,” participating in color and honor guards and organizing programs that promote Catholic citizenship. They also become part of a Fourth Degree Assembly in their area. There are more than 3,500 Fourth Degree assemblies aroun
d the world. Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone (1916-1945) was awarded the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism in combat at Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, in October 1942. During brutal fighting with heavy casualties on both sides, he killed at least 38 Japanese soldiers. He returned home to a hero's welcome, including a parade featured in "Life" magazine. But he requested to return to combat, stating that he was just "a plain soldier" who belonged with his unit. On February 19, 1945, Basilone was killed in action leading an assault off the beaches of Iwo Jima. He was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross, the only enlisted Marine to be honored with both the Navy Cross and the Medal of Honor. Officers of the Assembly:
Faithful Navigator SK Robert F Schnell
Faithful Comptroller SK Victor Chi
Faithful Friar SK Rev Michael F Falce
Faithful Captain SK Anthony Zalak
Faithful Admiral SK William J Kuil
Faithful Purser SK Henry F Zalak
Faithful Pilot SK Matthew K Geisert
Faithful Scribe SK Salvatore J Isabella
Inner Sentinel SK James Funaro
Outer Sentinel SK Robert Walsh
One Year Trustee SK Richard J Mezic
Two Year Trustee SK John Heenan
Three Year Trustee SK Joseph McAteer
