Since the establishment of the Patriotic Degree in 1900, the Color Corps have provided honor guards for religious and civic functions, an activity that has brought worldwide recognition to the Knights of Columbus. They are distinguishable by their official regalia of tuxedos, capes, chapeaux, and swords.
The Color Corps of the Knights of Columbus are the uniformed members of the Fourth Degree. They are the ones that are most noticeable at church and public functions, parades, etc. The Color Corps consist of two parts;
- Honor Guard
- Color Guard
Honor Guardsmen are those members who have mastered the Manual of the Sword. All others are Color Guard. The primary responsibility of the Honor Guard is to participate in recital of the rosary, wake, and burial of deceased members. This, of course, is at the request of the deceased Sir Knight's family.