GARDINER — The Smith-Wiley American Legion Post 4 will host a 4 Chaplains Memorial Ceremony at 9 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 1, honoring the four chaplains from four different denominations who gave up their life jackets so others could live when the U. S. Army Transport Dorchester was torpedoed Feb. 3, 1943, and sunk.

As the ship went down they could be seen arm in arm on the deck offering prayers and singing hymns. They received the Distinguished Service Cross and the Purple Heart posthumously which showed their heroism.

The 4 Chaplains Medal was authorized by Congress and awarded by the President Jan. 18, 1961. It was never awarded before and will never be awarded again. All Veterans should be honored for their service in keeping our Country free.