TUCSON, Ariz. — The 4 Chaplains who sacrificed their lives to save others on their ship during World War II were remembered in Tucson today.
The Tucson Veterans Affairs Committee hosted a memorial service for Chaplin (Lt.) Alexander Goode, a Jewish rabbi; Chaplain (Lt.) George Fox, a Methodist minister; Chaplain (Lt.) Clark Poling, a Dutch reformed minister; and Chaplain (Lt.) John Washington, a Roman Catholic priest.
The four gave their lives during WWII on board the U.S.A.T. Dorchester on February 3, 1943. As the ship was sinking, having been hit by a torpedo, the four men distributed all life jackets, even giving up their own, and helped the troops into life rafts.
"Its the gallantry, the comradery of the brotherhood, and to show how important it is to have our chaplains in combat situations with us. And that is what reminds us that not everyone can be as brave as they were, or willing to be that brave," said Henry G. Johnson, with the City of Tucson Veteran Affairs.
In 1961 a special "Medal of Heroism" was given posthumously to the four men.
