FORT CARSON, Colo. — Charles R. Bailey, a retired Army chaplain, speaks at a prayer breakfast Feb. 3, 2022, at Fort Carson in honor of the four immortal chaplains’ anniversary. On Feb. 3, 1943, the four chaplains gave up their own gear to save the lives of their Soldiers when a German submarine attacked their ship. (Photo by Spc. Jean-Marie)
By Spc. Tyler Brock
4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office
FORT CARSON, Colo. — Soldiers assigned to 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, gathered at the Fort Carson Veterans Chapel Feb. 3, 2022, for a prayer breakfast to honor the anniversary of the sacrifice made by four immortal chaplains.
FORT CARSON, Colo. — Capt. Timothy J. Baranoski, chaplain, 1st Striker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, speaks at a prayer breakfast Feb. 3, 2022, at Fort Carson in honor of the four immortal chaplains’ anniversary. On Feb. 3, 1943, the four chaplains gave up their own gear to save the lives of their Soldiers when a German submarine attacked their ship. (Photo by Spc. Jean-Marie)
On Feb. 3, 1943, the four chaplains — Lt. George Fox, Lt. Alexander Goode, Lt. John Washington and Lt. Clark Poling — were aboard a converted luxury liner along with 898 other service members, crewmembers and merchant seamen on their way from Newfoundland to an American base in Greenland when a German submarine attacked. The four chaplains led the passengers to safety and gave up their own gear, knowing they did not intend to leave the ship as it sank.
Capt. Eren McNeal, chaplain, 4th Brigade Support Battalion, 1st SBCT, noted if leaders understand the chaplains’ sacrifice, then they could learn how to support their fellow Soldiers.
“The Soldiers within the ‘Ivy’ Division can show selfless service in their daily lives by taking an extra moment to find out what their fellow battle buddies need,” said McNeal.
According to the Army, selfless service is putting the welfare of the nation, the Army and subordinates before your own. In serving their country, Soldiers are doing their duty loyally without thought of recognition or gain.
“I think it’s almost necessary,” said Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Szalay, motor transport operator, 2nd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 1st SBCT. “If you don’t know how to place others needs before your own, then I feel like you lack Army values.”
As the prayer breakfast came to an end, the consensus of those in attendance was that they walked away with a better understanding of what selfless service is thanks to the four chaplains who put their Soldiers’ lives above their own.