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Four Chaplains

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I most admit my prejudice. I'm a "Friend of the Four Chaplains." This is a documentary that sounds like a Hollywood movie from WW2. James Moll, producer and director, gives us a sensitive and inspiring history of the sinking of the USAT Dorchester of February 3, 1943 and the heroic story of the "Four chaplains." This is a religious and secular story rolled into one. This is not about muscle bound Ubermensch that fires some super automatic weapon that kills hundreds of the enemies. This is about four decent men. The kind of men that you would want as your neighbor or over to your barbecue. Well read, compassionate men they symbolize us.

On the night of February 3, 1943, convoy SG 19,going to Greenland, was attack by U-boat U223. The USAT Dorchester was mortally wounded. It sank between 18 and 23 minutes. From the hot hull to the freezing air of the north Atlantic, Most of the men rush to the deck, in various stage of stage of dress. Most came to the deck without their life preserver. The four chaplains: Rabbi Alexander Goode; Rev. George L. Fox; Rev Clark V. Poling and Father John P. Washington , found the locker where there were vests. They distribute them till they ran out. According to the witnesses, without a sound, the four chaplains took off their vest and past them to the first four mem in line. After that they help men to the life boats and gave encouragements to all. Then, they stood by the railing, lock their hands together and sung songs of praise. This is what the survivors saw as the Dorchester took one last turn and want under with the four chaplains. On May 28th, 1948, The United State Post Office issues a stamp commemorating their act.