“For God, for Country, and for Home” is not just a motto. It’s the driving force behind the Catholic War Veterans Square.
Welcome to Catholic War Veterans Square. This small park honors the dedication of Catholic War Veterans. It’s a tribute to their service and sacrifice.
Catholic War Veterans Square is a 0.01-acre public park. You can find it in South Ozone Park, Queens. The square occupies a triangular block. Rockaway Boulevard, 116th Avenue, and 122nd Street form this block.
The city created this triangle after widening Rockaway Boulevard in 1927. Parcels too small for development became parkland. The city acquired them and transferred them to the Parks Department.
In 1938, the City Council dedicated this space as Catholic War Veterans Square. This neighborhood has many Roman Catholics. They descend from Irish and Italian immigrants.
The Catholic War Veterans organization itself has a rich history. Monsignor Edward J. Higgins founded it in 1935. He sought to serve veterans and uphold the Catholic faith. The first meeting took place at Immaculate Conception Church in Astoria, Queens.
Pope Pius XI blessed the Catholic War Veterans in 1935. He also blessed the American and Papal flags. By 1947, the organization had over 500,000 members. During the Cold War, they fought against communism.
President Ronald Reagan granted the Catholic War Veterans a Congressional Charter in 1984. They were the first explicitly religious group to receive this honor.
The Catholic War Veterans Auxiliary supports the veterans. Family members work alongside veterans in service. They serve their community and the armed forces.
The Immaculate Conception Church is now the National Shrine of the Catholic War Veterans. It features stained glass windows that commemorate the Catholic War Veterans.
The Catholic War Veterans advocate for veterans’ benefits. They support veterans returning from conflicts. They actively support their communities through various initiatives.
The Catholic War Veterans exemplify community support. They organize food drives and volunteer at shelters. They also provide assistance to veterans. They offer scholarships and participate in patriotic events.
Catholic War Veterans Square features a flagpole. A granite crucifix serves as a memorial to veterans. Benches and red brick paving complete the space. These features set it apart from the surrounding sidewalks.
Think about the countless stories of courage that echo within this small space. The Catholic War Veterans Square is more than just a park. It’s a symbol of faith, service, and unwavering commitment. It reminds us of the sacrifices made for our freedom. It honors those who served. It is a place for reflection and gratitude.