John P. Washington was an American Catholic priest and United States Army lieutenant born in Newark, New Jersey, in 1908. During the Second World War, he served as a military chaplain aboard the troop transport USAT Dorchester. He is most widely recognized as one of the Four Chaplains, a group of clergy who perished while assisting others during a torpedo attack on their vessel in February 1943. His selfless actions during the sinking led to several posthumous honors for his service.
Military service
After his ordination in 1935, Washington served the military as a chaplain. While stationed on the USAT Dorchester, the ship was struck by a torpedo during the war. During the emergency, he prioritized the safety of soldiers by giving his own life jacket to a serviceman. He died on February 3, 1943, and his remains were lost at sea in the Atlantic Ocean.
Honors and memory
For his bravery, he was awarded the Purple Heart and the Distinguished Service Cross. He was also a recipient of the Four Chaplains' Medal. His legacy is preserved through a bridge in New Jersey named in his honor. The Episcopal Church observes his lesser feast day on February 3, the anniversary of his death.