Virgil C. Dechant is elected the 12th Supreme Knight. He is a Former Supreme Master. Supreme Knight Dechant has received the papal honors of Knight of St. Gregory; Knight Grand Cross of Merit with Gold Star, Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher; Knight Grand Cross in the Order of St. Pius IX; and Gentleman of His Holiness, Pope John Paul II. He would serve as Supreme Knight until 2000.
Supreme Knight Dechant announces a program by which all new members of the Knight of Columbus would receive the Rosary of Our Lady, blessed by the Supreme Chaplain.
Daniel L. McCormick, 5th Supreme Master of the 4th Degree. He would serve in this position until 1983.
1979
The Order initiates its first Pilgrim Virgin program by honoring Our Lady of Gaudalupe. An image of Mary, blessed by Pope John Paul II circulated through 6,580 councils.
Virgil C. Dechant is elected the 12th Supreme Knight. He is a Former Supreme Master. Supreme Knight Dechant has received the papal honors of Knight of St. Gregory; Knight Grand Cross of Merit with Gold Star, Equestrian Order of the Holy 
Sepulcher; Knight Grand Cross in the Order of St. Pius IX; and Gentleman of His Holiness, Pope John Paul II. He would serve as Supreme Knight until 2000.