“When war came, he once again enlisted, telling his wife, ‘I’ve got to go. I know from experience what our boys are going to face — and they need me.’”
Before boarding the USAT Dorchester, Chaplain George L. Fox wrote to his daughter:
“I want you to know how proud I am that your marks in school are so high. But always remember that kindness and charity and courtesy are much more important.”
This special day marks the Third Annual Four Chaplains Ceremony held at the George L. Fox Memorial Chapel — and the long-awaited opening of the George and Isadore Fox Memorial Museum.
More than a change in schedule, this gathering honors the extraordinary faith, courage, and sacrifice of Chaplain Fox and the Four Chaplains — a legacy so powerful that it reshaped how our nation recognizes service and sacrifice.
The museum, described by Fox granddaughter Lisa Hirbour as “her love letter to her grandmother 83 years in the making,” preserves:
• Chaplain Fox’s World War I service, including the Silver Star, Purple Heart, Croix de Guerre with Palm, and Medal of Victory with six battle bars
• His ministry, family life, and service leading up to World War II
• His heroic sacrifice aboard the USS Dorchester and posthumous medals including the Medal of Heroism that holds the same weight as the Medal of Honor.
• The lifelong devotion of his wife, Isadore Fox, an ordained Methodist minister who spent 40 years traveling the country to preserve his legacy
• A letter of sympathy from President Franklin D. Roosevelt
• Rare and irreplaceable memorabilia — including pieces that exist nowhere else in the world
This ceremony also celebrates the preservation of the very church Chaplain Fox pastored before returning to serve in World War II.
As we reflect on their legacy, we are challenged with a powerful question:
What legacy are we leaving?
What echo are we creating?
What character are we fostering?
The George L. Fox Memorial Chapel and Museum stand as lasting symbols of faith, service, family, courage, and remembrance.
Thank you to all who gathered to honor this moment — especially the Fox family, whose dedication ensured this dream became a reality.
83 years in the making. A legacy that lives on.
Previous Post