Four Chaplains Memorial of York County

Before work continues at the Four Chaplains Memorial of York County, it’s important to understand the story behind it.

In 1943, during World War II, four chaplains—each from different faiths—were aboard the USAT Dorchester when it was struck by a German torpedo in the North Atlantic.

As the ship went down, these four men gave up their life jackets to save others.

They were last seen standing together on the deck, arms linked, praying as the ship sank.

Different backgrounds. Different beliefs. One shared act of courage.

This memorial stands as a tribute to their sacrifice—and a reminder of what unity, faith, and selflessness look like in the face of unimaginable circumstances.

That same spirit of unity carries into this project today. Alongside York Excavating Company, this effort is supported by a dedicated group of partners—Real Services, Hartman Concrete, Trump Lawn and Land, Ascom Electric, Gingrich Memorials, and Sun Precast Co.—all working together to bring this memorial to life.

If you’d like to learn more about the Four Chaplains Memorial of York County—or find ways to support this effort—we encourage you to visit their website and see how you can get involved.

https://www.fourchaplainsyork.org/

As we continue our work on this site, that story stays with us.

Honoring Through the Rain

Memorial Day 2026 — Four Chaplains Memorial of York County

Despite steady rain and gloomy skies throughout the morning, the Memorial Day ceremony at the Veterans Memorial Gold Star Healing and Peace Garden moved forward as planned.

And somehow, during the dedication and wreath-laying ceremony itself, the skies seemed to pause—holding their watery eyes just long enough for the community to gather, reflect, and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

This year’s ceremony recognized the legacy of the Four Chaplains and the values they stood for: unity, courage, faith, and selflessness. The event also paid tribute to Gold Star families and the continued importance of remembrance within our community.

One quote included in the program captured the heart behind the ceremony:

“We mothers are proud of our sons and daughters who won peace and freedom for the world. Guard well this heritage for the mothers of the future.”
— American War Mothers Monument at Penn Park, York, PA

York Excavating Company was honored to support this meaningful project alongside Real Services, Hartman Concrete, Trump Lawn and Land, Ascom Electric, Gingrich Memorials, and Sun Precast Co.

As the ceremony concluded and the rain returned, it served as a reminder that remembrance is not dependent on perfect weather—because honoring sacrifice never stops for the storm.

Special thanks to everyone who attended, participated, and continues supporting the mission of the Four Chaplains Memorial of York County, including: Veterans Memorial Gold Star Healing and Peace Garden Board, The Four Chaplains Board, The City of York, York City Parks and Conservancy, 1st Capitol Detachment, Marine Corps League, Atlast Rubber Stamp & Printing, Reynolds AV, and Grand Rental of York.

For more information or to support the memorial:
👉 Four Chaplains Memorial of York County