Feb. 3, 1943: The USAT Dorchester is struck by a German torpedo and sinks in the north Atlantic Ocean. Onboard are four Army chaplains – Methodist Church minister George L. Fox; Reform Rabbi Alexander D. Goode; Reformed Church in America minister Rev. Clark V. Poling and Roman Catholic priest Father John P. Washington – who give up their own life jackets to others. They drown after helping dozens of soldiers onto lifeboats. Their final act is a prayer together, arms locked. Of the 904 onboard, 675 perish. The bravery of the four chaplains leads The American Legion to call for their Medal of Honor recognition. American Legion posts worldwide continue to conduct annual Four Chaplains Day ceremonies in early February to honor them.
