At left, World War I servicemen are surrounding a Knights of Columbus secretary as they consider job openings in front of the Longacre Hut on Broadway in New York City.

The Knights of Columbus took on a number of Catholic action programs during World War I. The Knights operated dozens of recreational and social facilities for troops througout the war zone under the slogan, "Everbody welcome. Everything free."

"Manned by K of C secretaries who were affectionately known as ‘Caseys’ the clubhouses provided recreation and a few of the amenities of home to any serviceman regardless of race or religion. And to Catholic servicemen they provided Chaplains and place to practice their faith.

"After the war, funds from the Order’s $30 million war chest were expended on a variety of K of C educational, vocational, occupational and employment programs for veterans in its 100 evening schools. More than 50,000 students enrolled, while some 25,000 took part in free home study courses.

"Of all the accolades and tributes paid to the Order during this time, the greatest tribute was the admiration demonstrated by the nearly 400,000 men who joined the Order between 1917 and 1923."