Membership & Identity
The Knights of St. Andrew generates membership for the Scottish Rite. Membership is limited to 32nd degree Freemasons and will abide by the Valley's by-laws, and those approved by the Sovereign Grand Inspector General of each State.
    The Knights of St. Andrew are identified by their flamboyant uniform and regalia; often entering special events accompanied by bagpipes and drums, becoming the elite unit of all Scottish Rite Masons. This is the best means of attracting younger members (ages 35 through 55 yrs.). It has all the magic and color used by the Shrine following WWII in the early 50's, before a tired and aging membership put it to rest. 
A Way for Acquiring Quality Membership


Each of the Forty charter members is given a "Squire's Coin". During the year each Knight will select a Master Mason or non-Mason who he considers to be worthy of joining this Elite group. He will invite the candidate and his lady to attend their dinners and events. And he will take care to see him through the required degrees to be eligible for the Unit. He has one year to do this. He will retrieve the lucky "Squire's Coin" only if the candidate fails to take the time to qualify for membership. Now you have 80 Knights with the second 40 repeating the actions that attracted him to the Unit. The lucky "Squire's Coin" has an engraved legend that makes one uneasy if lost. Concentrating on getting just one member over a period of 12 months makes Lodge attendance necessary.
    This exclusive Unit is identified by a special cap with Bonnet Badge (replacing the familiar black cap) and other regalia. 
Remember: Membership is limited to 32nd degree Masons only, and those interested should contact other Brothers in your Valley to begin the process.

Special Attire Distinguishes this Elite Group
Carefully researched for authenticity, the 17th Century bonnet, with its 3 cock feathers protruding from its Bonnet Badge as shown in (Fig. B & Fig. B-1), will replace the conventional 32nd degree black hat. 
    A Plaid selected to represent your local Valley will be worn diagonal on a cummerbund. Some Valleys may consider the wearing of kilts, but this is an expensive attire. Thus, we suggest one that is just as elegant and far less costly. An Officer's dinner jacket worn with tuxedo pants and a tux shirt and bow tie for formal attire. Regular wear would be a coat, open collared shirt and bonnet. The logo for the Knights of St. Andrew was researched by Ill. Joe Witzerman, 33*, and has been adopted as the official logo for the Order. The Official Bonnet Badges for regular members and Officers; as well as other accessories have been deeply researched for authenticity and are ready for distribution.

    The unit is restricted to 32nd Degree Masons only and all other members, regardless of their titles and rank or hat colors, CANNOT hold the honor of membership in this majestic group without first being selected and approved by the members. And then, ONLY as an Associate Member.
    The regalia has been researched for authenticity and the head cover will replace the present 32nd degree hat. A plaid for your local Valley may be selected and voted on by your members of the Scottish Rite. The chosen headgear will be selected from those shown (see apparel page). The Bonnet Badges and Medallion are supplied along with the Squire's Coins (see accessories page), the KEY to membership is made of semi-precious metal and will remain with the member at all times and will be fined if lost or failed to have it on his person (see accessories page).

Those Awarded the decoration of K.C.C.H. and 33rd Degree
Those of the Clan who are awarded the decoration of K.C.C.H., will become an associate member. A red feather will replace the white one on his bonnet, when he wears his Glengarry at the Clan meetings. This is to encourage members to reach for the honors. those who raise to the 33rd Degree will be distinguished with a red, gold and white feather in their bonnet. But the major voting membership will be restricted to 32nd degree Freemasons.
    At NO time will a KCCH or 33rd Degree be taken in membership. Only those who started in the Clan as 32nd degree Masons and raise while a member are privileged to wear the Glengarry Bonnet and cock feathers.
Mel Kirschner 32* K.C.C.H and Laird of the Realm is an internationally respected businessman and recognized authority in the petrochemical and energy fields. Mr. Kirschner brings over 40 years experience as a business leader. Mr. Kirschner understands the unique concerns of the world business world community, has a proven track record in product development and serves on the board of several societies and industrial associations. He is a consultant for numerous Asian marketing, engineering and business interests.
    A decorated veteran of WWII, Bro. Kirschner serves as President/CEO of North American Petroleum, Inc., Director of Kirosan Group, Ltd., Member of the International Society of Financiers, Member of the Society of Engineers, Member of the "American Institute of Metallurgical Exploration and Petroleum Engineers".
Bro. Mel passed away quietly at his home on January 20, 2006 - his memorial service included a Masonic Service with many friends in attendance, full military honors including a live bugler (performed by his son) and bagpiper.  He will be missed for his colorful storytelling, love of life, fellowship and hard work. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, 2 children, 4 grandchildren and in the hearts of his many friends and through his many good deeds.
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