The Four Chaplains Story and Chapel in Philadelphia
A Legacy of Courage, Faith, and Sacrifice
The story of the Four Chaplains—also known as the “Immortal Chaplains”—is one of the most poignant tales of selflessness and sacrifice during World War II. Their remarkable act of heroism, which occurred aboard the U.S.S. Dorchester in 1943, is commemorated in various ways across the United States. One of the most notable sites honoring their memory is the Four Chaplains Memorial Chapel in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This chapel stands not only as a place of worship but also as a testament to the enduring legacy of the four chaplains who gave their lives to save others.
The Story of the Four Chaplains
The tragedy that would lead to the Four Chaplains' legendary act of courage unfolded on the night of February 3, 1943. The U.S.S. Dorchester, a troop ship en route to Greenland, was struck by a German torpedo. The ship was carrying more than 900 soldiers, sailors, and civilians at the time. Amid the chaos and panic that ensued following the attack, four men—one Protestant minister, one Catholic priest, one Jewish rabbi, and one Methodist minister—stood out for their extraordinary bravery.
These chaplains, despite knowing the ship was sinking and that survival was unlikely, worked together to calm the frightened men, provide spiritual comfort, and help with the evacuation. In an act of selflessness that has since become legendary, the chaplains gave up their own life jackets, offering them to soldiers who were struggling to survive in the icy waters. As the ship sank, the chaplains were last seen standing arm-in-arm, praying together as the vessel went under. Only 230 men survived the attack, but the memory of the Four Chaplains lives on as an enduring symbol of brotherhood, courage, and faith.
The chaplains’ names were:
Reverend George L. Fox (Methodist)
Rabbi Alexander D. Goode (Jewish)
Father John P. Washington (Roman Catholic)
Reverend Clark V. Poling (Reformed Church in America)
Their actions were recognized posthumously, and each was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, the Purple Heart, and other honors.
The Four Chaplains Memorial Chapel in Philadelphia
Located within the historic Broad Street United Methodist Church in Philadelphia, the Four Chaplains Memorial Chapel serves as a site of remembrance for these four men and their selfless sacrifice. The chapel, dedicated in 1951, provides a sacred space for reflection, prayer, and honor. It not only memorializes the chaplains but also highlights the broader themes of unity, faith, and service that they embodied.
The chapel features a number of significant markers and exhibits related to the Four Chaplains. These include portraits, personal items, and displays outlining their backgrounds, as well as the events surrounding their heroic actions. Visitors can learn about each chaplain’s life, ministry, and the circumstances that led them to serve aboard the U.S.S. Dorchester.
One of the most striking elements of the chapel is its stained-glass windows. These windows depict scenes from the chaplains' story, including the moment when they gave away their life jackets to save others. The chapel’s interior is filled with artifacts from the World War II era, adding depth to the historical significance of the site. The chapel also serves as a venue for memorial services and special events, ensuring that the legacy of the Four Chaplains continues to inspire future generations.
The Chapel’s Role in Education and Commemoration
The Four Chaplains Memorial Chapel plays an essential role in educating the public about the importance of interfaith cooperation and sacrifice. The chaplains’ unity in the face of death demonstrates the profound bond between individuals of different faiths working toward a common goal. Their story is one of true ecumenism—a powerful reminder that, even in the direst circumstances, human compassion and faith can transcend religious differences.
The chapel also holds an annual memorial service on February 3rd, the anniversary of the sinking of the Dorchester. This event attracts veterans, families, and members of the public who gather to honor the chaplains' bravery and reflect on the themes of service and sacrifice. The Four Chaplains’ story is told not only as part of American military history but also as a universal message about the power of selflessness and the human spirit.
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy
The Four Chaplains' story is a testament to the power of faith and courage in the face of unimaginable adversity. Their willingness to give their lives for others stands as an example of what it means to serve with integrity, compassion, and a deep sense of duty. The Four Chaplains Memorial Chapel in Philadelphia is a vital part of preserving this legacy. It serves as a spiritual and historical landmark where visitors can reflect on the enduring values of unity, sacrifice, and the power of faith.
In a world often divided by differences, the story of the Four Chaplains reminds us of the strength we can find in working together, regardless of faith or background, to help others in their time of need. The Four Chaplains Memorial Chapel stands as a beacon of hope and an everlasting tribute to their sacrifice, ensuring that their heroism will never be forgotten.
On or around Feb. 3 of each year, American Legion posts nationwide commemorate the selfless acts of four chaplains.
The U.S. Army Transport Dorchester was hit by a German U-boat torpedo on Feb. 3, 1943, as it was transporting troops in the North Atlantic to an American base in Greenland. The ship sank, killing 672 of the 902 officers and enlisted men, merchant seamen and civilian workers aboard. But for those who survived, they were left with the memory of the courage and leadership exhibited by four chaplains of different faiths, who, in sacrificing their lives, created a unique legacy of brotherhood.
As soldiers rushed to lifeboats, Rev. George Fox (Methodist), Jewish Rabbi Alexander Goode, Rev. Clark Poling (Dutch Reformed) and Father John Washington (Roman Catholic) comforted the wounded and directed others to safety. One survivor watched the chaplains distribute life jackets, and when they ran out, they removed theirs and gave them to four young men. As the Dorchester sank, the chaplains were seen linked arm in arm, praying.
2025 DECEMBER SWEEPSTAKES WINNERS
1. $10,000 GRAND PRIZE William McCoy, Lancaster, PA
2. $2,500 SECOND PLACE WINNER- Gem Nenninger, Littlestown, PA
3. $1,000 THIRD PLACE WINNER- Jeffrey Stephenson, New Cumberland, PA
4. $500 FOURTH PLACE WINNER- Deanna Anderson, Hermitage, PA
5. $250 FIFTH PLACE WINNER- Karl Raudensky, Duncannon, PA
6. $250 SIXTH PLACE WINNER- Paul Rosar, Harleysville, PA
7. $250 SEVENTH PLACE WINNER- Donald Heitzenrater, Hatboro, PA
8. $250 EIGHTH PLACE WINNER- Nicolas Minto, Lyndora, PA
9. $100 NINTH PLACE WINNER- Lionel Hauger, Sharpsville, PA
10. $100 TENTH PLACE WINNER- William Good, Yardley, PA
The 2025 Sweepstakes Winners
Tips to support deployed servicemembers in your area
Sending care packages to deployed servicemembers and welcoming them home are just two of the many ways American Legion Auxiliary members show support to those serving our nation. Sometimes, finding deployed servicemembers can be challenging. However, collaborating with other local organizations can help American Legion Auxiliary members connect with those who are on duty.
Military Family Readiness Groups. This is a great option, but it may not be the easiest if you don’t have an already established relationship with a Military Family Readiness Group. You can build a rapport by offering to volunteer with them or donate needed items.
Local USO. In addition to helping you connect with troops, there are opportunities for you to help a nearby USO. Consider working with your local office to provide items at the ready for servicemembers as they pass through on their way back from deployments or as they travel to their next duty station.
Soldiers’ Angels. This organization has a variety of campaigns you can offer to volunteer or partner with, along with helping you find those deployed.
Chaplain at a military installation. Because of Operations Security (OPSEC), information will be limited. But ALA members can always offer their support when needed.
Word of mouth. Keep a lookout at community events, church, and any other networking you do in your community. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to newly arrived military families. Contact your local Chamber of Commerce to see if you can be notified if a new military family moves in. Consider including a coupon for a free dinner at the post home via the Chamber’s “Welcome Wagon” mailings (if offered in your area).
ART OF THE ASK
Don’t expect organizations to give you information just because you asked. Offer support before asking. And consistently ask how you can help. Let them know of any events the American Legion Auxiliary is hosting, and invite them. Asking, “How can I help?” is a much better approach than “Who’s going where and when?” The bottom line is the importance of building a relationship with these organizations.
KEEP OUR SERVICEMEMBERS SAFE
After learning where servicemembers are located, there are a few things to keep in mind. It’s imperative to know OPSEC. This is a process for protecting information and activities from adversaries. Don’t inadvertently violate OPSEC by posting information on social media. That includes troop movement — such as a military unit’s location, personnel names, ranks, or other IDs — and especially dates, times of flight arrivals, and departures.
Remember the families
While you are looking for ways to support servicemembers, don’t forget about the family members left behind. Your American Legion Auxiliary unit can support them or collaborate with organizations that support families (e.g., Armed Services YMCA, Operation Homefront, etc.).
National President Trish picks her favorites for National Convention
The 2025 American Legion Auxiliary National Convention is right around the corner and whether it’s your first or your 15th, it’s always a great reason to freshen up your wardrobe. To help you feel prepared and confident in Tampa, Fla., site of our 104th National Convention, National President Trish Ward is sharing her favorite pieces from our member benefit provider, Lands’ End Business. Whether you’re attending breakout sessions, exploring the convention city, or just want to look sharp while staying cool, Trish’s selections have you covered — literally.
Women’s short-sleeve rapid dry sport neck polo View Item
This performance polo is a perfect blend of function and style. With moisture-wicking fabric and a breathable fit, it’s made to keep up with long convention days and the Florida heat. The sport neck adds a modern touch, while the lightweight material ensures all-day comfort.
Women’s sleeveless Supima cotton polo View Item
Crafted from premium Supima cotton, this sleeveless polo is soft, smooth, and exceptionally breathable. It’s an ideal option for warm-weather events or indoor spaces that tend to run warm. Worn on its own or layered under a jacket or cardigan, it offers a clean, polished look while allowing for plenty of movement. It’s lightweight enough for summer days and structured enough to keep you looking put together throughout the entire day.
Supima micro modal elbow sleeve balletneck top View Item
This elegant elbow-sleeve top is a wardrobe staple that will work well beyond National Convention. The ballet neckline and curved hem create a flattering silhouette, while the soft blend of Supima cotton and micro modal makes it incredibly comfortable to wear all day. It’s easy to dress up or down and resists wrinkling, which makes it a favorite for travel. It’s also a go-to among ALA National Headquarters staff for both its style and versatility.
Cotton modal V-neck cardigan sweater View Item
This classic cardigan is a must-have for any convention packing list. Made from a soft cotton-modal blend, it layers easily over polos, blouses, or dresses without feeling bulky. The V-neck cut keeps it tailored and polished, while the lightweight fabric provides just the right amount of warmth for chilly convention halls. It’s timeless, practical, and pairs seamlessly with just about everything in your suitcase.
Men’s rapid dry active polo View Item
The men’s rapid dry active polo combines comfort, professionalism, and practicality all in one sharp-looking piece. The rapid dry fabric is designed to wick away moisture while keeping you cool. It offers a clean, athletic fit that looks great on its own or layered under a blazer or light jacket. Whether you're flying in or walking across the Tampa Convention Center, it stays wrinkle-resistant and ready to go. Easy to pack, easy to wear, and easy to coordinate with the rest of your wardrobe, it’s a true workhorse piece.
Natural zip-top canvas tote View Item
Don’t underestimate the power of a great tote. The natural zip-top canvas tote is a practical companion for busy convention days and is spacious enough to carry your water bottle, notebooks, snacks, and all the extra materials you pick up along the way. The sturdy construction holds up to daily use, while the zip-top closure keeps your belongings secure whether you’re moving between gates at the airport or stashing it under your convention seat. It’s simple, classic, and easy to personalize with the ALA logo.
Trish’s year-round favorites
While the ALA National Convention happens only once a year, representing the ALA in style doesn’t stop there. These are a few of National President Trish’s personal favorites that work well beyond the convention center. Whether you’re hosting a service project, traveling for a department event, or just running errands in your community, these pieces are functional, polished, and perfect for showing off your ALA pride every day.
Women’s Thermacheck 100 fleece vest View Item
This fleece vest is the ultimate layering piece, light enough to wear indoors or during transitional seasons, but warm enough to keep you comfortable when temperatures dip. Made from anti-pill, soft Thermacheck fleece, it holds its shape, resists wear, and feels just as cozy after a full day of activity as it does when you first put it on. It’s tailored enough to pair with a button-up or polo, and features room for the ALA logo to shine.
Unisex rapid dry quarter zip pullover View Item
The rapid dry quarter zip pullover is one of Trish’s go-to pieces for a reason! It’s versatile, breathable, and easy to throw on in just about any setting. The unisex fit makes it a great option for all members, and the rapid dry fabric keeps you comfortable even during active days. This pullover is a practical choice for events, travel, or casual days around town.
When you shop through our ALA Lands' End Business Store, you can customize your favorite pieces with the ALA emblem or wordmark and take advantage of exclusive member pricing. Representing the Auxiliary should look as good as it feels.
Whether you’re packing your suitcase for National Convention or refreshing your wardrobe for the busy year ahead, we hope Trish’s favorites spark a little inspiration (and maybe a few clicks to “add to cart”). We’ll see you soon dressed with pride and ready for an unforgettable convention.
Department Opening Ceremonies
The Joint Opening Ceremony for The Department of Pennsylvania American Legion, Sons, Auxiliary, and Riders
Come See The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall
In approximately 1 month, Kulpmont’s Post 231 Sons of American Legion and Lady’s Auxiliary will host our most ambitious endeavor to date, and what we believe is to be Central Pennsylvania’s flagship summer event. The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall will arrive on Thursday, July 3rd and will remain on display until Monday, July 7th.
On Thursday July 3rd, @ 12:30pm trucks containing the display will meet a procession of fire trucks, police officers, motorcycles, and patriotic citizens at Silver Moon Banquet Hall, 137 Silver Moon Lane Lewisburg, PA 17837. This motorcade will escort the Traveling Vietnam Memorial Wall on its journey to Kulpmont, The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall - Kulpmont's 150 year celebration . Ladder fire trucks will form an arch and suspend an American flag for the wall’s entrance into the Borough. The wall should arrive in Kulpmont around 3:00pm and be assembled following arrival. A short blessing of the wall will take place upon completion of assembly around 5:30pm.
On Friday July 4th, an opening ceremony will take place starting at 10:00am. Veterans, Dignitaries, Elected Officials, and a Gold Star Family will present on the importance of honoring our veterans and the significance of The Traveling Vietnam Memorial Wall. The wall will remain on display 24 hours a day until it is disassembled on Monday July 7th.
Veterans Memorial Field is located at S 6th St and Poplar Dr, Kulpmont PA
In early 2025, our groups sent letters asking for your support with this event. The response has been overwhelming.
We have set a high bar and still need your help to make this event a success. The high expectations we have placed on this event support the importance of honoring our veterans.
You can help by…
Attending the event - The Memorial Wall will be on display 24 hours a day. This memorial display coincides with Kulpmont’s 150th anniversary (schedule attached). Events will take place throughout the community throughout the weekend. Bring a group, bring a bus, the park can handle bus turnaround, and the park is equipped to handle a crowd. Admission is free and the event is open to the public.
Spreading the word about this event. – The importance of honoring veterans can be shown by the number of attendees. You all know groups and individuals that can all help get the word out. Please reach out on behalf of this event. Flyer attached.
Helping Assemble and Disassemble the Display – On Saturday June 28th, a platform will be assembled to support the Memorial Walls, both the Vietnam Memorial Wall and 911 Memorial Wall. On July 3rd, the wall will be assembled and on July 7th it will be disassembled. We cannot do this alone and would greatly appreciate your involvement.
Guarding The Travelling Vietnam Memorial Wall – The wall needs to be watched 24 hours a day while on display. Please contact us if you can cover a 2-hour shift.
Guiding Visitors Through the Display – 58,267 names are honored on the Vietnam Memorial Wall. Another nearly 3000 names are honored on the 911 Memorial Wall. Visitors will need help navigating the registry finding the friend, neighbor, or family member they wish to pay tribute.
If you have any questions about the event or how you could help, please contact….
Friends remember PNC DiFrancesco as a wonderful human being and Legionnaires Legionnaire
By Steven B. Brooks
SEP 09, 2021
When Dominic D. DiFrancesco was campaigning for American Legion national commander, one of his stops was in Massachusetts. It was there that Past National Commander John P. “Jake” Comer, knowing DiFrancesco’s Italian heritage, took his guest to the North End, known as Boston’s Little Italy.
“He was a great lover of Italian pastries, and when he came to Massachusetts … we took him down to a pastry shop that was one of the best in the country,” said Comer, who served as national commander four years prior to DiFrancesco. “He really loved the pastry. So when he became (national) commander, I brought to the (national convention in 1991 in Phoenix) quite a bit of the pastries. When I walked into his room, he and his wife and family all thought it was the greatest thing. He loved it.”
Comer’s friendship with DiFrancesco, who passed away Sept. 6 at age 88, spanned five decades. Comer called the Pennsylvania Legionnaire “a wonderful, good, decent human being. I’m very sorry for his loss. I really am. He was a good friend.”
A Korean War Navy veteran and 67-year member of American Legion Post 594 in Middletown, Pa., DiFrancesco spent 38 years as a federal employee, retiring as a Plans and Resource Specialist. He told The American Legion Magazine in 1991, "My father handed me my Legion card the day I returned home after my discharge. My hometown of Steeltown, Pa., was always an American Legion town, and I grew up knowing about the Legion's community involvement."
DiFrancesco’s involvement in the organization grew, as he served in leadership positions at the post and department level, serving as Pennsylvania’s state commander from 1986 to 1987. The man who succeeded him as department commander, Ronald F. Conley, would later serve as American Legion national commander from 2002 to 2003.
Conley said his friendship with DiFrancesco preceded their service as department commander and continued through the years, despite DiFrancesco living in Harrisburg and Conley on the western side of the state.
“Dominic was very dedicated, and he truly was a Legionnaire’s Legionnaire,” Conley said. “He loved The American Legion, and he loved working for the veterans of our country. And I think our connection to the veterans of Pennsylvania was important as we traveled together. I did my thing, and he kind of did his thing. When he was national commander he went to Boston and visited a homeless shelter there. When I was the state commander I started a homeless program here in Pennsylvania. So we kind of traveled the same path.”
DiFrancesco went on to chair the National Legislative Commission and National Membership & Post Activities Committee and served on the National Executive Committee before being elected national commander.
While leading the organization – and using the theme "Success is a journey and not a destination” – DiFrancesco raised awareness about the veteran homelessness issue, called for a Department of Veterans Affairs budget that kept up with the need presented by an again veteran population, and called for legislation “to assist our newest cadre of veterans, the Desert Storm troops. We must secure adequate benefits for these young veterans as quickly and decisively as the Persian Gulf War was won, because as we all know, the nation, and especially the Washington politicians, tend to forget the brave deeds of veterans all too quickly. We must press the Congress to enact the new GI Bill for Desert Storm veterans while the nation still basks in the victory of the Persian Gulf War.”
DiFrancesco also brought attention to the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder. "It took 20 years for our government to recognize post-traumatic stress disorder among veterans of combat,” he told 1991 National Convention delegates. “We need not wait another 20 years to treat this condition. We must provide the help that is needed immediately for those who have experienced the horrors of war and the stress of family separation.”
Another issue DiFrancesco spoke often about during his tenure was for a full accounting of American prisoners of war and those missing in action. "The American Legion will continue to intensify our efforts to resolve the POW/MIA issue,” he said during his acceptance speech. “And I mean not only the POW/MIAs unaccounted for in Southeast Asia, but in all wars. There is an apparent lack of responsiveness on the part of some government officials who are responsible for resolving the POW/MIA issue. This must stop now.”
Months later, in a March 1992 Commander’s Message, he called the nation’s quest to repatriate its Vietnam POW/MIAs “a failure. Nineteen years after President Richard Nixon declared that ‘...all of our courageous prisoners of war [have been] set free and [are] here back home in America,’ 2,267 American families still live in a twilight zone of anxiety and uncertainty. The war is over, but their loved ones have not returned. Their lives are on hold waiting for answers that may never come. America is at peace, yet they have no peace.”
Comer remembers DiFrancesco’s passion for bringing home U.S. POWs and MIAs, as well as another issue close to his heart. “That was one of his main speeches as he traveled throughout the country,” Comer said. “The other thing he was very involved with was the flag amendment. Dom stressed that very heavily, along with the POW issue.”
Under DiFrancesco’s leadership, American Legion membership reached 3,115,340 – the third-highest membership total in the history of the organization and the highest total since then.
DiFrancesco was inducted into the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs’ Hall of Fame in 2001. Along the way, Conley said his friend was good at making sure those behind him in The American Legion got the training they needed.
“He ended up telling me about potential leaders from his area,” Conley said. “He would work with and promote people. That’s the type of person he was.”
Comer said that concern for the future of the organization that DiFrancesco showed is one shared by Comer and was emphasized by Past National Commander John H. Geiger, who headed the organization from 1971 to 1972 and passed away in 2011.
“It’s so important,” Comer said. “John Geiger’s theme to all of us coming along, and I sort of carried the same ball, is when you go around the country and you go into these states, ask them to introduce you to those that they feel would be future leaders. You’ve got to stop and talk to the Legionnaires that are coming along. You’ve got to let them know that they can stop you in the hallway and discuss something.”
A viewing is scheduled for Sept. 12 from 2-5 p.m. at Wiedeman Funeral Home, 357 S. Harrisburg St., Oberlin, PA 17113. A visitation is scheduled for 10 a.m. and a Mass for 11 a.m. Sept. 13 at Seven Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church, 280 N. Race St., Middletown, PA 17057, followed by lunch at American Legion Post 594 in Middletown, 137 E. High Street, Middletown, PA 17057.
Condolences may be sent to the family at 227 E. High St., Apt. E2, Middletown, PA 17057-1925.
Dominic DiFrancesco
We are saddened to announce Past National Commander and current Department Finance Committee Emeritus Dominic DiFrancesco passed away yesterday with his loving family by his side. Dominic was a dedicated 67-year member of The American Legion. Dominic proudly served as Pennsylvania Department Commander 1986-1987 and National Commander 1991-1992. He also has served on the Department Finance Committee since 2007 as well as many other positions throughout his Legion career, both at Department and National level. The American Legion was his second family. Many called him a mentor and even more, a friend. He will be terribly missed by his entire Legion family. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.
Condolences can be sent to:
The DiFrancesco Family
6 Bangor Road
Middletown, PA 17057
Services for PNC DiFrancesco have been confirmed by the family.
Viewing on Sunday, September 12th from 2-5pm at Wiedeman Funeral Home located at 357 S. Harrisburg Street, Oberlin 17113.
Monday, September 13th, a visitation is scheduled at 10am and Mass at 11am. Both visitation and Mass will be held at Seven Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church, 280 N. Race Street, Middletown, 17057 followed by lunch at Post 594 Middletown, located at 137 E. High Street, Middletown, 17057.
PA Legion Notices Receive Email Notices From The Department
Occasionally the Pennsylvania Department will send out notifications to its membership. The notifications inform members of deaths, events and important department information. When you sign up you will be able to select topics that you are interested in. Click below to add your name to the list.
A Legacy of Courage, Faith, and Sacrifice
On or around Feb. 3 of each year, American Legion posts nationwide commemorate the selfless acts of four chaplains.
Military Family Readiness Groups. This is a great option, but it may not be the easiest if you don’t have an already established relationship with a Military Family Readiness Group. You can build a rapport by offering to volunteer with them or donate needed items.
