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As we reflect on Memorial Day and its significance, I would like to invite you to join me as we turn our attention to one brave man, born in Lewistown, Chaplain George L. Fox. Chaplain Fox, along with three other Army chaplains, made the ultimate sacrifice during World War ll, giving up his life for others. His story is an inspirational one filled with compassion, commitment, and bravery. The four met at Chaplain's School at Harvard University and although they came from different denominations, they quickly became friends.
The story begins on January 23, 1943, when the S.S. Dorchester, an Army transport ship that was once a luxury liner, left port in New York on its way to Great Britain via Greenland. The ship was loaded to capacity, with 902 passengers, most of which were servicemen, four of which were the four Army chaplains. One a Catholic priest, one a Jewish rabi, the other two protestants. All from very different backgrounds, but all with the same purpose, to share faith and hope with the servicemen around them. It is hard to imagine how fearful those soldiers must have been, having no idea what they may face as they headed to war. Especially since after ten days at sea, they were on course to pass through "Torpedo Junction," a particular section of ocean known for German submarine strikes. Before going to bed that evening, the soldiers were asked by their captain to sleep in their clothes and life vests since it would be a very dangerous night. Some listened, and tragically, some did not.
In the early morning hours of February 3, while everyone was asleep, a German submarine spotted the ship and fired a torpedo that found its target causing critical damage. Many were killed and injured instantly by the initial blast, and the others were sent into chaos, scrambling to get to safety. Those who did not heed the captain's warnings searched frantically for clothing and life jackets. Some managed to secure spots on available lifeboats, but they soon became filled. It was complete and utter pandemonium. Many were disoriented and screams and cries filled the darkness. Some jumped to their deaths in the frigid waters. Several soldiers reported that the four chaplains remained calm and devoted their time and efforts to assisting those around them. One eyewitness said he heard a soldier desperately crying out that he couldn't find his life jacket. He then saw Chaplain Fox remove his and give it to the terrified man, saving the soldier's life but sealing his own death. Eventually the rest of the chaplains gave up their life jackets to those without.
The four chaplains continued to run between the scared and injured men calming them and guiding them to safety. Another witness recounted hearing the chaplains praying and encouraging those around them until the end. As the ship sank beneath the dark water, it is said that the four chaplains could be seen standing on the deck, arms linked, praying, and singing hymns. Each singing in their own languages including Latin and Hebrew. According to one survivor, John Ladd, "It was the finest thing I have seen or hope to see this side of heaven." It took less than 30 minutes for the ship to disappear below the icy waters.
Of the 902 men who boarded the S.S. Dorchester, only 230 survived and many of those owe their lives to the heroism of those four chaplains, Rev. Fox, Rabbi Goode, Rev. Poling, and Father Washington. Even though 80 years have passed, these amazing examples of selfless faith and courage still inspire us today. They may have been of different faiths, but they stood as one in their purpose and example, proving there is tremendous strength in diversity.
Before boarding the Dorchester, Rev. Poling asked his father to pray for him, "Not for my safe return, that wouldn't be fair. Just pray that I shall do my duty...pray that I shall be adequate." If only on this Memorial Day, we could strive to be as "adequate" as he!
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Rhonda S. Kelley, Executive Director, Juniata River Valley Chamber of Commerce