Norwich - The selflessness of four Army chaplains who saved others aboard a sinking ship during World War II continues to serve as an example to pursue "greater service," speakers said at a ceremony Sunday.

On Feb. 3, 1943, the U.S. Army Transport ship Dorchester, bound for Greenland, began sinking after an attack from the German submarine U-223. Four

Army chaplains helped usher passengers to safety and ultimately gave up their own life jackets - and lives - to save others. In all, 230 out of 904 people aboard the Dorchester survived.

On Sunday afternoon, about 40 people honored the chaplains at the Peter Gallan American Legion Post 104. American Legion member Dennis A. Baptiste served as the master of ceremonies during the event that featured the parade of colors, the national anthem and speeches.

The event focused on the legacy of the four chaplains: Lt. George Fox, a Methodist minister; Lt. Alexander D. Goode, a rabbi; Lt. John P. Washington, a Roman Catholic priest; and Lt. Clark V. Poling, a Dutch Reformed Church minister.

State Rep. Kevin Ryan, D-Montville, said the chaplains were a "great example of unselfishness."

Norwich Mayor Deb Hinchey said their story can help one realize the meaning of dedication to a country, sacrifice and "great faith in a power higher than any of us can understand."

The Rev. Cathy Zall of the First Congregational Church of New London, the same church where Poling served as a youth minister, said the "Immortal Chaplains" and so many who served are an example to encourage people to "greater service."

Highlighting the state's efforts to end homelessness for veterans, she called on others to serve in their own way.

"Each of us can do something to serve the world in need," said Zall, who is also the director of the New London Homeless Hospitality Center. "It might be a kind word, a healing friendship, financial support, a coat or a food donation - or any one of hundreds of things we can do to make a difference in the lives of another person."

State Sen. Cathy Osten, D-Sprague, drew upon the story of Washington's transformation. After being born into poverty in Newark, N.J., and surviving an illness at age 12, he led a "tough street gang" within the city before becoming a Roman Catholic priest. He then served his country and saved lives aboard the Dorchester.

Rabbi Julius Rabinowitz of Beth Jacob Synagogue in Norwich spoke about the role of chaplains throughout history in providing spiritual comfort, which helps guide the military to carry out its mission with valor and ensure it is spiritually pure.

The Rev. Scott Schuett of the Redeemer Lutheran Church in Lebanon, the keynote speaker, said attendees can honor the chaplains by exercising the values of religious freedom, service and sacrifice. He shared his concerns about veterans facing homelessness or other hardships.

He also encouraged people to partake in daily sacrifice by contributing some of their time and talents to others without expecting a reward.

"The opportunities to do this are endless, and the gratitude on the faces of those we help are more priceless than any treasures we might receive," he said.

k.drelich@theday.com

Twitter: @KimberlyDrelich