Four Chaplains Memorial of York County

The Four Chaplains Memorial of York County honors the heroic sacrifice of four U.S. Army chaplains who perished aboard the U.S.A.T. Dorchester during World War II. On February 3, 1943, the Dorchester was torpedoed by a German submarine in the frigid North Atlantic near Greenland.

As the ship sank, the four chaplains—Rabbi Alexander D. Goode (formerly of Temple Beth Israel in York, PA), Father John P. Washington (Roman Catholic), Reverend George L. Fox (Methodist), and Reverend Clark V. Poling (Dutch Reformed)—calmly gave up their life jackets to save others. Linking arms in prayer, they remained on board and went down with the ship. Of the 902 men aboard, only 230 survived. Their selfless actions became a lasting symbol of courage, interfaith unity, and service above self.

To preserve and carry forward this legacy, the Four Chaplains Memorial of York County leads several educational and community-based initiatives. Board Members actively engage with local school districts throughout the year, sharing the story and values of the Four Chaplains with students—emphasizing faith, sacrifice, unity, and moral courage.

The most notable public event is the Annual Prayer Breakfast, first held in 1993 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Dorchester’s sinking. The 2025 event will take place on May 14th at the Wyndham Garden York (2000 Loucks Road). Doors open at 6:45 AM for a 7:00 AM start, followed by a Youth Sponsored Breakfast at 9:30 AM, which engages students from York City Schools with the same message and program as the morning session.

A highlight of the Prayer Breakfast is the Legion of Honor Award, given to individuals who exemplify the chaplains' spirit through their own acts of leadership and service. The event also supports the Four Chaplains Scholarship, awarded to graduating seniors who previously attended Alexander D. Goode Elementary School in York.

Sponsorship opportunities are available at various levels, including Grand, Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Youth Table Sponsorships. For details, contact info@fourchaplainsyork.org or call 717-220-3454.

Learn more or get involved at www.fourchaplainsyork.org.