It is important that heroic acts not be allowed to fade into the past or be forgotten. The sacrifice of the Four Chaplains of The Dorchester on February 3, 1943, off the coast of Greenland, is a case in point. The event triggered a series of spiritual happenings almost unparalleled in the history of our nation. The first Sunday in February was designated as "Four Chaplains Sunday." Churches and veterans’ groups across America conducted special memorial services to commemorate the courage and example of these Four Men of God.

In the 60 years since the troop transport sank with a loss of over 600 men, the Four Chaplains’ story has become an integral part of the traditions and rituals of The American Legion. In each Legion Department, Chaplains conduct a Memorial Service dedicated to the memory of these brave ministers during a Legion statewide meeting. As veterans, we cooperate with The Chapel of The Four Chaplains, located at the Philadelphia Naval Yard, in accepting the obligations to provide an opportunity for the public to revisit this inspirational story of courage and self-sacrifice.

The passage of time and the pressure of fast moving world events has caused the memory of this World War II saga to recede and even to be unknown by a younger generation. Because it is such a shining example of Chaplains actually carrying out the moral code by which we are all supposed to live, it deserves to be kept alive. That is why we, in Kansas, perpetuate the Story of The Four Chaplains during our Annual Mid-Winter Forum. Let us hope that men and women of all ages and those yet unborn, will benefit from our recalling and honoring these brave ministers who gave their lives to help their comrades.

Ode to the Chaplains: "We are not told the prayer they chose, since death so swiftly came. I fancy, though, ‘tis thus it goes: "Our Father, Who are in Heaven, Hallowed be They Name!" Amen