The AZ Knights of Columbus held a fourth-degree exemplification for the state of Arizona on May 29 and also held a degree exemplification this past January.

Knights of Columbus Council No. 7243 of Apache Junction had attendees at both. Three new Sir Knights passed the exemplification process — Neil McMillin, Robert Mohle and Steven Ezyk, according to a release.

The fourth degree is a patriotic degree. It is the highest and most prestigious degree within the Knights of Columbus organization. The Sir Knights are a group of outstanding members who are dedicated to the service of their church, their country and the order.

“The Knights of Columbus is a worldwide Catholic fraternal organization whose founding principles are charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism dedicated to serving our parishes, our families and community. While we serve the needs of the world at a national level, our individual councils serve our local communities,” according to the release.