The story of the extraordinary self-sacrifice of "The Four Chaplains" from the Coastal Steamer USAT Dorchester, which was torpedoed and sunk in WWII, was commemorated at the Medina Presbyterian Church Tuesday evening.

 

These four men of faith -- Rabbi Alexander D. Goode, Father John P. Washington, Reverend George L. Fox and Reverend Clark V. Poling brought comfort, solace, encouragement and the eternal love of God to the hapless crew of the sinking ship in bitter cold and gale force winds.  Giving up their own life jackets, and ultimately, their own lives, the chaplains linked arms together, and with heads bowed in prayer, they sank beneath the dark turbulent waves.

 

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to those in attendance at this Remembrance Service and to the Faith Community of Medina, including:

 

Phill Grassa - Legion Post 202 Commander

Ken Rambo - Legion Post 202 Assistant Chaplain

Color Guard - Legion Post 202

Hon. Dennis Hanwell - City of Medina Mayor

Rev. Dr. C. Reid Miller - Lt. Colonel (Ret.) USAF Military Chaplain

Rev. Arthur Ruffin - Medina 2nd Baptist Church Sr. Pastor

Cathy Fafrak - Medina UCC Pianist

Marian Vogel - St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church Lyric Soprano