American Legion in Ashland to observe Four Chaplains Day with public service on Feb. 5

ASHLAND − In commemoration of the sacrifice of four armed forces chaplains during World War II, members of Harry Higgins Post 88 of the American Legion will observe Four Chaplains Day at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 5 at 1338 Claremont Ave.

The service is open to the public, according to a news release from the American Legion.

This is the anniversary of the Feb. 3, 1943 sinking of the USS Dorchester and the heroism demonstrated by four valiant chaplains.

Guest speaker will be Ken Hammontree, who will portray Gen. George Patton. Also, four local chaplains will be participating, representing Methodist, Reformed, Jewish and Catholic traditions.

Mayor Matt Miller will give a proclamation and musical selections will be presented by 67th District Rep. Melanie Miller, R-Ashland.

"Of the many thrilling incidents of World War II, probably none stirred the nation more deeply than the story of these four men of God whose heroic efforts were credited with the saving of more than 200 lives. These four ... calmly issued lifebelts to American servicemen aboard the troop transport after it was torpedoed," the release states.

"When the supply of life preservers was exhausted, the four Chaplains removed their own lifebelts and gave them to four soldiers and then stood calmly on the sinking ship, their arms around one another’s shoulders and their heads bowed in prayer."

Harry Higgins Post 88 of the American Legion each year marks the anniversary of their supreme sacrifice by holding a memorial service.

Post 88 commander is Ronald E. Dull and post chaplain is John Sperzel.

This article originally appeared on Ashland Times Gazette: Four Chaplains Day observed Feb. 5 at Ashland American Legion