Alexandria, AL – On Sunday, February 4, 2024, a poignant event will unfold at the United Fellowship Baptist Church on 161 Becky Turner Road in Alexandria, AL. The American Legion Post 111 Oxford, Alabama, will host a Four Chaplains Church Service, commemorating the selfless acts of courage and sacrifice of four extraordinary Army chaplains during a pivotal moment in history. The service will begin at 10:00 AM and will be followed by a heartfelt luncheon.
Every year, American Legion posts across the nation observe Four Chaplains Day, a day of remembrance designated by Congress in 1948 to honor the valor and compassion demonstrated by four chaplains – Lt. George L. Fox (Methodist), Lt. Alexander D. Goode (Jewish), Lt. John P. Washington (Roman Catholic), and Lt. Clark V. Poling (Dutch Reformed). These brave men played an extraordinary role during the sinking of the USAT Dorchester on February 3, 1943, in the cold waters of the North Atlantic.
As the Dorchester succumbed to an enemy torpedo, these four chaplains, from different faiths, stood united in the face of adversity. They calmed frightened soldiers, tended to the wounded, and guided the disoriented towards safety. In an act of unparalleled heroism, they selflessly distributed life jackets and, when supplies ran out, relinquished their own to young men on board. As the ship sank, witnesses recall seeing the chaplains linked arm in arm, singing hymns and praying, leaving an indelible mark on the annals of history.
Despite Congress’s attempt to confer the Medal of Honor on the chaplains being thwarted by stringent requirements, a one-time posthumous Special Medal for Heroism was authorized by President Eisenhower in 1961, carrying the same weight and importance as the Medal of Honor.
Four Chaplains Church Service Program:
– Call to Worship: 10:00 AM
– Praise and Worship: Pastor Chris Clay
– Four Chaplains Ceremony:
– Call to Order: V. Commander Frederick Franklin
– Song: “God Bless America” – Congregation
– Presentation and Posting of Colors: Post Color Guard
– Pledge of Allegiance: Tobias Bauer
– Introduction: V. Commander Frederick Franklin
– Four Chaplains Service: Preston Hale
– Opening Prayer: Chaplain Jon Clark
– Four Chaplains Tribute: Preston Hale
– Special Poem: Rev. Angela Orr
– Closing Remarks: Preston Hale
– Closing Prayer: Chaplain Jon Clark
– Presentation to Pastor Chris Clay: V. Commander Frederick Franklin
This moving event, organized by American Legion Post 111 Oxford, pays homage to the courage and unity displayed by the Four Chaplains. Attendees will not only witness a deeply meaningful ceremony but also have the opportunity to reflect on the profound impact of these individuals on the lives of those they served. As the community comes together to honor these heroes, the event stands as a reminder of the enduring spirit of selflessness and sacrifice.
