AUBURN - Sunday was a day of celebration for the Falconettes, Nest 430, of the Polish Falcons.

The fraternal order celebrated its 95th anniversary in grand fashion all day.

Mary Rand, president of Nest 430, said that the Auburn nest gathers to celebrate its anniversaries once every five years, making the day all the more special.

Rand went on to say that the organization was first founded in Auburn in May 1913, with a commitment to both heritage and community.

“It started with drilling and gymnastics classes,” Rand said. “It also played a role in teaching things like ethnic dancing and songs.”

The order also took an active role in the war effort.

During World War II, Rand said the Falconettes took on tasks such as sewing, knitting and collecting clothing to be sent abroad, as well as working with the Red Cross.

But one thing that has remained constant throughout the group's 95 years is a commitment to certain ideals.

After the church service, the gathering moved to the Sunset Restaurant for a dinner celebration.

National President Timothy L. Kuzma attended the gathering to reflect on what the order, which can trace its roots back to the 1800s in Prague, has and continues to stand for to this day.

Kuzma said it is an organization dedicated to the ideals of family, creating strong values and a sense of community and support, all of which is only made possible by people such as the membership of Nest 430. These are people Kuzma said that have shown extraordinary dedication to their shared ideals.

“The Polish Falcons of America are built on fundamentals,” Kuzma said. “The fundamentals of family and fellowship and of helping one another. Everyone here is very dedicated to that idea. Without that dedication we wouldn't be here today and we would be celebrating an achievement like 95 years. If we didn't all believe in that ideal, we wouldn't be able to keep this alive and thriving. But these are ideals we are all committed to and that we must preserve for our children and their children and their children's children.”

To recognize this enduring commitment and dedication, the Falconettes have several awards which pay tribute to the commitment of their members.

Rand explained that after three years of active service, which can involve work in any number of areas, such as fundraising or work in other Polish Falcon programs such as golf and bowling tournaments, members are eligible for the bronze star.

After five years the silver star and five years after that, the gold star.

Members with 33 years of service become eligible for the organization's highest honor, the Gold Legion of Honor.

Sunday saw more than a dozen of these awards bestowed, with Marcia Zolinski receiving the Gold Legion of Honor.

“She is very dedicated,” Rand said. “And she is always there when you need here help and that is why we are giving her our highest honor.”