4th Degree hold emotional Memorial Day event at San Fernando Cemetery III

San Antonio de Padua - Assembly 1102 & St. Vincent de Paul - Assembly 2040

Auxiliary Bishop Michael J. Boulette and Knights of Columbus Fourth Degree Sir Knights, from Assembly’s 1102 and 2040, gathered this Memorial Day, May 29, 2023, at San Fernando Cemetery III for an emotional, prayerful, and commemorative ceremony to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the freedoms we hold so dear to us as Americans.

The touching Memorial Day celebration included the personal recognition of four families whose sons lost their lives in service to their country.

Observed on the last Monday of May, Memorial Day is an American holiday that honors the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. It is important to note that this year, Memorial Day 2023, coincidentally fell on Monday, May 29, which is also the Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church.

To start the ceremony, the joint team of Sir Knights from Assemblies 1102 and 2040 posted the United States and Papal flags, recited the Pledge of Allegiance, and then posted the six military service flags.

Bishop Boulette celebrated the Mass with Mrs. Letty Spain, Director of Worship & Music at Church of the Holy Spirit, blessing us with her musical talents. After the Mass, Bishop Boulette accompanied the Fourth Degree Knights as they marched to the designated area for the flag raising of the colors ceremony. Then, the flag was lowered to half-mast, taps were played, and a wreath was laid next to the flag pole. Bishop Boulette led a short prayer service and all marched back to the chapel area.

At this time, the presentation of the honorees was conducted by Sir Knight Ray Davila and U.S. Congressman Tony Gonzales, District 23, Texas. They honored the four families whose sons gave the ultimate sacrifice while serving their country. Congressman Gonzales read and presented their certificates to their families. “There are no words to express what our servicemembers give up to keep our nation prosperous and free – we owe them and their families every ounce of gratitude,” Rep. Gonzales said. “As a 20-year Navy veteran, it was a privilege to help commemorate this event.”

Both Fourth Degree Assemblies celebrate Memorial Day each year by posting the flags, honoring identified families who have lost their loved ones, and participation at Mass with a bishop.

The Sir Knights recognize Memorial Day as a day of respect and remembrance for those who sacrificed their lives in military service and in recognition of the immeasurable loss to their families, friends, and communities. Assembly 1102 and Assembly 2040 put their faith, and their love of country, into action through this carefully planned and reverently presented ceremony that honors those who gave their all.

The ceremony displays one of the primary purposes of the Fourth Degree to encourage active Catholic citizenship and foster the spirit of patriotism in members and the community at large.

The Sir Knights would like to thank Ismael Galvan, Cemetery Manager, and his staff for sponsoring these Sir Knights each Memorial Day event at San Fernando Cemetery III.A special thank you to Sir Knight Juan Moran, Faithful Navigator - Assembly 1102, and Sir Knight Anthony Morales, Color Corp Commander – Assembly 2040, for their leadership with this pivotal, annual event.