Awards

The Knight Templar Cross of Honor was established by the Grand Encampment to recognize exceptional and meritorious service to the Order far beyond that normally expected of an officer or member.

Nominations originate with the nominee’s Commandery and require approval of the respective Grand Commander. Eligibility and annual nomination limits are governed by Grand Encampment regulations.

The honor includes the distinctive medal, lapel pin, and an official certificate issued by the Grand Encampment.

The National Award is presented by the Grand Encampment at its Triennial Conclave to recognize an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the country through civic, professional, military, scientific, religious, or comparable endeavors.

The recipient is not required to be a Knight Templar. Nominations may originate from a Commandery or Sir Knight and are submitted through the Grand Encampment.

The Knight Commander of the Temple recognizes distinguished service to the Order, the fraternity, the community, or mankind. Nominations are considered through the College of Honors program.

Recipients are formally invested with the KCT and receive the distinctive neck jewel, lapel pin, and certificate or patent.

The Companion of the Temple is an honor associated with the College of Honors. Unlike the KCT, the recipient does not need to be a Knight Templar or Mason. Both men and women are eligible.

Recipients are formally invested with the honor and receive the Companion of the Temple jewel.

The Knight Grand Cross of the Temple is a highly limited honor administered through the College of Honors. Grand Encampment elected officers receive the distinction upon installation when otherwise eligible.

Additional recipients require approval through the College of Honors and are formally invested with the associated jewel and patent.

The Grand Cross Templar denotes membership in the College of Honors and represents one of the highest levels of recognition within the Grand Encampment honors program.

The distinction is retained while the recipient remains a member of the Order, subject to the governing rules of the College of Honors.

The Grand Commandery Meritorious Service Medal was introduced in 2019 and provides each Commandery an opportunity to recognize one worthy member during a calendar year.

The recognition includes the medal and a corresponding Meritorious Service lapel pin.