United Church Hosts Second Annual Four Chaplains Award Ceremony

United Church of Marco Island will host its second annual Chapel of the Four Chaplains Award Ceremony on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at 10:00 AM in Disseler Hall. The event is free and open to the public.

This meaningful community program honors individuals whose lives embody service, sacrifice, and compassion—values inspired by the legendary Four Chaplains who gave their lives saving others when the USAT Dorchester sank on February 4, 1943.

Music for the ceremony will be provided by the Marco Island Charter Middle School Band under the direction of Martie Miller. The Presentation of Colors will be conducted by the American Legion Post 404 of Marco Island.

United Church will recognize the following individuals for exemplary service and dedication:

• Russell Rath – Recipient of the Purple Heart for heroic combat service in Vietnam.
• William Duncan – Survivor of the USS Forrestal fire.
• Rear Admiral Ken Deutsch (USN, Ret.) – Honored for his distinguished leadership and military service.
• Scot & Pat Kaufman – Recognized for significant community contributions through NCH, Our Daily Bread Food Pantry, and the Kaufman Cancer Center in Maryland.

“This is a great time to recognize heroes who live among us,” said Rev. Ed Brandt, Pastor of United Church of Marco Island. “Their stories remind us that courage, service, and sacrifice still define leaders in our community.”

The ceremony is sponsored by the United Church Veterans Group and honors the legacy of the Four Chaplains: Lt. George Fox, Lt. Clark Poling, Lt. John Washington, and Lt. Alexander Goode, who selflessly surrendered their life jackets to save fellow soldiers during the sinking of the Dorchester on February 4, 1943.

Last year United Church recognized John Foster, Rene Champagne, Allyson and Jim Richards, and Lee Rubenstein. Don Mills was recognized posthumously.

For more information, visit www.ucmarco.org or contact ucmarco@ucmarco.org.

United Church is located at 320 N. Barfield Dr. and worships every Saturday at 5:00 PM and Sundays at 8:30 and 10:00 AM. Ed Brandt is the Pastor.