Understanding the Knights of Columbus 4th Degree Uniform: A Comprehensive Guide

The official dress uniform of the Knights of Columbus Fourth Degree is a distinctive and honorable attire, rich in symbolism and tradition. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the components, regulations, and significance of the 4th Degree Kofc Uniform, ensuring members are appropriately attired for various functions and ceremonies.

The Official Dress Uniform – Section 38 Breakdown

Section 38 of the Knights of Columbus regulations meticulously outlines the official dress for the Fourth Degree. Each element is specified to maintain uniformity and respect for the order’s traditions. The complete official dress includes:

1. Navy Blue Blazer with Fourth Degree Emblem Blazer Crest: The navy blue blazer serves as the foundation of the uniform, distinguished by the Fourth Degree emblem blazer crest. This crest signifies the wearer’s affiliation with the Fourth Degree.

2. Knights of Columbus Emblem of the Order Buttons: The blazer is fastened with buttons bearing the Knights of Columbus Emblem of the Order. These buttons are a subtle yet significant detail, reinforcing the wearer’s connection to the broader Knights of Columbus organization.

3. Official Fourth Degree Gray Trousers (no cuffs): Official Fourth Degree gray trousers, without cuffs, are mandated. The specific shade of gray and the absence of cuffs contribute to the uniform’s formal and consistent appearance.

4. Official Fourth Degree Necktie: The official Fourth Degree necktie is a crucial element, completing the formal look. Its design and color are specific to the Fourth Degree, setting it apart from other Knights of Columbus regalia.

5. Official Fourth Degree Black Beret with Fourth Degree Metal Badge: The black beret is a signature piece of the Fourth Degree uniform. It features a Fourth Degree metal badge positioned over a colored patch. The patch color varies based on the office held by the member:

   • Dark Blue Patch: Supreme Master (Pantone # 19-4035 TC)
   • Light Blue Patch: Vice Supreme Master (Pantone # 14-4313 TC)
   • Gold Patch: District Master (Pantone # 13-0941 TC)
   • White Patch: Faithful Navigator (Pantone # 11-0601 TC)
   • Green Patch: District Marshal (Pantone # 18-5315 TC)
   • Purple Patch: Assembly Commander (Pantone # 19-3542 TC)

   Image alt text: Color patches for Knights of Columbus Fourth Degree berets, indicating different officer roles such as Supreme Master (Dark Blue), Vice Supreme Master (Light Blue), District Master (Gold), Faithful Navigator (White), District Marshal (Green), and Assembly Commander (Purple).

6. Plain White Dress Shirt – Button cuff (no French cuffs – no button-down collar shirts): A plain white dress shirt with button cuffs is required. French cuffs and button-down collar shirts are not permitted, ensuring a clean and traditional look.

7. Black Socks and Plain Black Shoes: Black socks and plain black shoes complete the uniform from head to toe. These simple yet essential components maintain the uniform’s solemn and dignified appearance.

8. Official Fourth Degree Lapel Pin (#PG-113): The official Fourth Degree lapel pin (#PG-113) is a small but significant emblem worn on the blazer lapel. It subtly signifies the wearer’s Fourth Degree membership.

9. Incumbent Medal of Office: Members currently holding an office are required to wear the Incumbent Medal of Office. This medal denotes their current leadership position within the Knights of Columbus.

10. Past and Former Miniature Medals above left pocket: Past and former officers may wear miniature medals above the left pocket, recognizing their previous service and contributions to the order.

Exceptions for Military and First Responders

Acknowledging the service of members in uniform, the regulations state that members serving in the armed forces, full-time police, and firefighters are considered properly attired when in a Class A or dress uniform. This provision honors their commitment and service to their country and communities.

Colors of Office: Beret Patches Explained

The colored patches on the beret are not merely decorative; they are symbolic indicators of office. The regulations specify the colors associated with various leadership positions within the Fourth Degree. Notably, the colors worn by Supreme Masters, Vice Supreme Masters, Masters, and Faithful Navigators can be worn for life, even after their term of service concludes. However, this lifetime provision does not extend to Assembly Color Corps Commanders and District Marshals upon completion of their terms. These color designations became mandatory on June 10, 2017.

Dress for Exemplification: Welcoming New Members – Section 39 & 40

Exemplification ceremonies, where new members join the Fourth Degree, have specific dress requirements:

1. Candidates: Candidates are to wear a black or dark (blue or grey) business suit, black shoes, a plain white dress shirt (as specified for the official uniform), a necktie, and candidate identification. This ensures a respectful and unified appearance for those entering the Fourth Degree.
2. Candidates in Uniform: Candidates serving in the armed forces, full-time police, or firefighters may wear a Class A or dress uniform, mirroring the exception for existing members in official dress.
3. Social Baldric: The social baldric, presented at the exemplification, is designated for wear with business suits or tuxedos at social functions. It is explicitly not worn with the official dress uniform.
4. Honor Guard: For members serving as honor guard during exemplification, the official dress uniform, as detailed in Section 38, is required.

Color Corps Regalia: Adding to the Honor Guard – Section 40 & 41

When serving in a Color Corps (Honor Guard or Color Guard), the official dress uniform is enhanced with specific regalia:

1. Service Baldric and Silver Sword: A service baldric is worn over the coat, from the right shoulder to the left hip, accompanied by a silver sword. These additions distinguish the Color Corps and their ceremonial role.
2. Gold Sword for Senior Officers: Supreme Masters, Vice Supreme Masters, Masters, and former holders of these offices are permitted to carry a gold sword, further differentiating their leadership roles within the Color Corps.
3. White Gloves: White gloves are added to the uniform for Color Corps service, enhancing the formality and visual distinction of the honor guard.

Assemblies can establish a uniform drill corps, known as “Fourth Degree Color Corps of __________ Assembly,” with the approval of the District Master. The Master maintains control of the Color Corps within his district, and the Faithful Navigator appoints a Commander for the Assembly’s Color Corps.

Procedure, Sword Manual, and Silent Commands – Section 42

The procedures and manual for sword drill are guided by the “Color Corps Drill Manual.” In the absence of specific directives, the District Master has authority, subject to Supreme Master approval. Silent commands, or visual cues, are essential during drills, particularly in solemn settings like church services, ensuring respectful and quiet execution of movements.

Jewels of Office

Fourth Degree members attending official functions requiring Fourth Degree dress may wear the jewel of their office around their neck, whether it pertains to the Fourth or Third Degree, along with the Social Baldric. This allowance provides an opportunity to display their office and honors in conjunction with the prescribed uniform.

In conclusion, the Knights of Columbus Fourth Degree uniform is more than just clothing; it is a symbol of honor, service, and unity. Adhering to these regulations ensures that members present a dignified and respectful image, upholding the traditions and values of the Knights of Columbus.