As we approach Armed Forces Day and Memorial Day, it's worth it to revisit the role that the Knights played in supporting our military, particularly during the Great War (World War I). The Knights served soldiers by establishing the K of C Huts, places of recreation and respite for troops where everyone was welcome, and everything was free. The brothers who ran those huts, many times putting themselves in great danger to support the troops, were called K of C Secretaries, who became affectionately known as "Caseys" by the soldiers (legendary Casey, "Uncle" Joe Kiernan, is pictured). Cigarettes, gum, footballs and boxing gloves -- things like that were the "weapons" of choice used by Casey men to fight the war.There are some great resources on the internet that pay tribute to this contribution to American military history. Here are some links to just a few you may want to explore:
- New York Times article from 1918 announcing establishment of centers by the K of C
- Article by a WWI vet detailing his experience with the "Caseys"
- Short overview of K of C huts and the services they provided
- Article from Supreme about history of military support by the K of C
Take a look and be proud!
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