Veterans Tribute – Recap November 8, 2025
On Saturday, November 8, the Knights of Columbus Holy Family Council #11811 hosted a heartfelt tribute to veterans, beginning with the 4:30 p.m. Mass.
Following Mass, approximately 25 veterans (mostly parishioners) and 80 supporters gathered in the Activity Center, where tables featured centerpieces displaying photos of our honored veterans.
Program Highlights
- Welcome & Opening: Master of Ceremonies Chuck Gaidica greeted attendees; Sir Knight Victor Centeno led the Pledge of Allegiance.
- Blessing & POW/MIA Table: Fr. Drew blessed the food and participants; Victor Centeno explained the symbolism of the POW/MIA Missing Man Table.
- Dinner & Video: Guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres while a moving Veterans Day video played (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HHG_TA1T5mg).
- Veteran Stories & Tribute: Veterans shared personal experiences. The group honored Fr. Vincent Capodanno, a Navy chaplain killed in action in Vietnam and posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor. As a Servant of God, attendees prayed for an intercessory prayer for miracles (https://cforc.com/2025/09/servant-of-god-vincent-capodanno-a-life-of-service-self-denial-and-sacrifice/).
- Michigan Fallen Heroes: Parish veterans led prayers and recognition for Michigan soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines who made the ultimate sacrifice.
- Charity Spotlight: A video showcased the evening’s chosen charity, Vets Returning Home, which provides housing, support, and rehabilitation for Michigan veterans in crisis (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lVqSpfjSw5A).
Closing
The tribute concluded with a group sing-along of Lee Greenwood’s God Bless the USA (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Japc8M8RQw), followed by a group photo with our heroes.
Thank you to all who served and supported this memorable evening.