Introduction

The Knight Defenders of Mercy, Justice and Chivalry is a new association formed from knights united in providing knighthood to deserving people of any race, religion or ethic background. This Association was created from a group of Knights who were later appointed with the rank of Knight Commander.  These Knight Commanders all believe in and support the  tradition where many centuries ago, Knights created Knights as a personal honor bestowed on a fellow deserving warrier.  This was a honor that predated Royal or Religious Orders.  Later,  people of high social standing could and did create independent Orders of Knighthood.

The Knight Commanders have the authority to appoint and invest those who they have determined have met the qualifications of Knighthood base on personal merit.  As Knights, who would be better to determine if a deserving person should be "knighted". 

If the Knight Commander invests a person with this high honor that person will serve under the leadership and banner of that appointing Knight. The senior Knight will mentor and guide the junior knight in the duties and expectations of a true knight.  He will also collect the required vita and forward that information to Grand Commander and Chancellor of the association.  

The Knight Commander and his knights will comprise a "Commandery" and also select  a name for their Commandery.  They will design their own "Banner or Shield " as long as it is non-religious in nature.  

 
If a Knight Commander feels that one of his knights has displayed an understanding of the principles and tenets of chivalry and knighthood and has strong leadership abilities, he could recommend that person for an appointment as a fellow Knight Commander.  Applications from Knights for promotion, directed  to the Grand Commander will not be accepted.

Neck crosses or breast stars are not authorized.  There are no post nominals for the members in the association. A 39mm membership medallion is authorized for each Commandery. All cost is to be absorbed by its members.  Donations will not be solicited or accepted from non-members. 

The Association is a merit based and acknowledges one's character, integrity and accomplishments. In order not exclude a “worthy candidate” of limited funds or means; the Association does not impose membership fees.