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The Immortals: A WWII Story of Four Heroic Chaplains, the Sinking of the SS Dorchester, and an Awe-Inspiring Rescue: The World War II Story of Five ... the Dorchester, and an Awe-Inspiring Rescue
During World War II, four chaplains were assigned to the SS Dorchester with more than 900 men on board. Alexander Goode, a Jewish rabbi; John Washington, a Catholic priest; George Fox, a Methodist minister; and Clark Poling, a Baptist minister, all offered comfort, reassurances, and prayers along with a warning from the captain that a German submarine was hunting their convoy.
Thoroughly researched and told in an engrossing nonfiction narrative, this true story alternates between accounts told from the perspective of the Nazi U-boat captain and his crew (as found in their journals and later interviews) and survivors from the Dorchester who credit the four chaplains with saving their lives after their ship was torpedoed.
The celebrated story of the men who became known as the Immortal Chaplains is now joined for the first time in print by the largely untold story of another hero: Charles Walter David Jr. A young Black petty officer aboard a coast guard cutter traveling with the Dorchester, Charles bravely dived into the glacial water over and over again, even with hypothermia setting in, to try to rescue those the chaplains had inspired to never give up.
Page-turning and inspiring, The Immortals explores the power of both faith and sacrifice and powerfully narrates the lives of five heroic men who believed in something greater than themselves, giving their all for people of vastly different beliefs and backgrounds.
Thoroughly researched and told in an engrossing nonfiction narrative, this true story alternates between accounts told from the perspective of the Nazi U-boat captain and his crew (as found in their journals and later interviews) and survivors from the Dorchester who credit the four chaplains with saving their lives after their ship was torpedoed.
The celebrated story of the men who became known as the Immortal Chaplains is now joined for the first time in print by the largely untold story of another hero: Charles Walter David Jr. A young Black petty officer aboard a coast guard cutter traveling with the Dorchester, Charles bravely dived into the glacial water over and over again, even with hypothermia setting in, to try to rescue those the chaplains had inspired to never give up.
Page-turning and inspiring, The Immortals explores the power of both faith and sacrifice and powerfully narrates the lives of five heroic men who believed in something greater than themselves, giving their all for people of vastly different beliefs and backgrounds.
309 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 11, 2021
39 people are currently reading
2337 people want to read
About the author
Steven T. Collis
7 books83 followersSteven T. Collis is the author of the nonfiction books Deep Conviction and The Immortals, as well as the novel Praying with the Enemy. He is a storyteller at heart, but in his other life, he is also a law professor at the University of Texas School of Law, where he is the faculty director of the Bech-Loughlin First Amendment Center and Texas's Law & Religion Clinic.
Prior to joining the faculty at Texas, he was the Olin-Darling Research Fellow in the Constitutional Law Center at Stanford Law School and was an equity partner at Holland & Hart LLP, where he chaired the firm's nationwide religious institutions and First Amendment practice group.
Before embarking on his legal and writing career, Steven graduated magna cum laude from the University of Michigan Law School, where he was elected to the Order of the Coif and served as an editor on the Michigan Law Review and the Michigan Journal of Race and Law. Steven also holds an M.F.A. in creative writing from Virginia Commonwealth University, where he served as the associate editor of the literary journal Blackbird. He completed his undergraduate studies, with university honors, at Brigham Young University.
Originally from New Mexico, Steven lives in Austin with his wife and children. He is on the web at www.steventcollis.com.
Prior to joining the faculty at Texas, he was the Olin-Darling Research Fellow in the Constitutional Law Center at Stanford Law School and was an equity partner at Holland & Hart LLP, where he chaired the firm's nationwide religious institutions and First Amendment practice group.
Before embarking on his legal and writing career, Steven graduated magna cum laude from the University of Michigan Law School, where he was elected to the Order of the Coif and served as an editor on the Michigan Law Review and the Michigan Journal of Race and Law. Steven also holds an M.F.A. in creative writing from Virginia Commonwealth University, where he served as the associate editor of the literary journal Blackbird. He completed his undergraduate studies, with university honors, at Brigham Young University.
Originally from New Mexico, Steven lives in Austin with his wife and children. He is on the web at www.steventcollis.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
May 5, 2024
Incredible story of courage, love and sacrifice
February 11, 2021
Steven T. Collins has written a fantastic non-fiction tale in, “The Immortals.” This is a book that puts the human element right back into the often discussed Second World War. If you read this book, and I believe you should, you will likely find it difficult to walk away with a dry eye by the end.
I was fascinated by this book from beginning to end. The individual stories of these men’s lives and how they reached the decision to become chaplains in a very dangerous time, as well as the very personal sacrifices they would go on to make are incredible.
The story is told in a fluid way that makes it easy and enjoyable to read and at times one forgets that they are actually reading about real life since the emotional aspects are such a part of the overall story. This is excellent writing and research combined. Even if you are not a major war history buff, this book would still be a great choice. Especially during the recent upheaval in all of our lives, it is sobering to see the choices that others have made to retain our freedom and liberty.
I happily recommend this book to anyone looking for a heartfelt journey into the past.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher provided through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
I was fascinated by this book from beginning to end. The individual stories of these men’s lives and how they reached the decision to become chaplains in a very dangerous time, as well as the very personal sacrifices they would go on to make are incredible.
The story is told in a fluid way that makes it easy and enjoyable to read and at times one forgets that they are actually reading about real life since the emotional aspects are such a part of the overall story. This is excellent writing and research combined. Even if you are not a major war history buff, this book would still be a great choice. Especially during the recent upheaval in all of our lives, it is sobering to see the choices that others have made to retain our freedom and liberty.
I happily recommend this book to anyone looking for a heartfelt journey into the past.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher provided through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
May 24, 2021
It isn’t very often that I find a non-fiction book I devour like it’s a novel, but this is one. I loved the way the author wrote this book. It was an interesting book to read. And it made me want to learn more.
The way the author wrote this book, there are chapters talking about the Chaplains that died in this tragedy. I loved reading about each of them. And I loved reading how they were with the men on board. And their final unselfish acts touched me. These were men who in normal life probably wouldn’t have wanted a lot to do with each other. Yet they became dear friends, united in trying to save as many men as they could.
I also enjoyed the way the author talked about the Nazi U-boat captain as well. It was really interesting to see what both sides of this story would have been. It’s one of those stories that just reaches out and grabs my attention. I’d like to learn more about all of it.
I was sent an e-copy of The Immortals as a gift from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
The way the author wrote this book, there are chapters talking about the Chaplains that died in this tragedy. I loved reading about each of them. And I loved reading how they were with the men on board. And their final unselfish acts touched me. These were men who in normal life probably wouldn’t have wanted a lot to do with each other. Yet they became dear friends, united in trying to save as many men as they could.
I also enjoyed the way the author talked about the Nazi U-boat captain as well. It was really interesting to see what both sides of this story would have been. It’s one of those stories that just reaches out and grabs my attention. I’d like to learn more about all of it.
I was sent an e-copy of The Immortals as a gift from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
June 17, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
On January 23, 1943, troop ship, the SS Dorchester left New York city en route to Greenland as part of a convoy of three troop ships escorted by Coast Guard cutters. During the early morning hours of February 3, the German submarine U-223 torpedoed the vessel off Newfoundland. Over 900 souls were on board.
Also aboard were four chaplains—Alexander Goode, John Washington, George Fox, and Clark Poling—representing different faiths, who comforted soldiers and sacrificed their own lives to save others when the Dorchester sank.
In twenty-five minutes, one torpedo killed more than a quarter of the number of personnel lost during the entire attack on Pearl Harbor. Chaplains helped the soldiers board lifeboats and gave up their own life jackets when the supply ran out. The chaplains went down with the ship. The sinking of the Dorchester would go down in the annals of history as the worst single loss of US personnel of any American convoy during the entire conflict.
Collis alternates between accounts told from the perspective of the Nazi U-boat captain and his crew (as found in their journals and later interviews) and survivors from the Dorchester who credit the four chaplains with saving their lives. Coastguardsman Charles Walter David, Jr., emerges as another hero, rescuing 93 survivors from the frigid waters. The scene of the men freezing to death in the water was heart-wrenching.
However, the book falters in execution. The abundance of military names and vessels confused me, and the narrative’s textbook-style lacked emotional depth. A shift to historical fiction might have better conveyed the story’s power. Despite these flaws, The Immortals remains a worthwhile exploration of faith and sacrifice amid WWII's forgotten episodes.
** Thanks to the publisher for a review copy of this book. The opinions are my own.
On January 23, 1943, troop ship, the SS Dorchester left New York city en route to Greenland as part of a convoy of three troop ships escorted by Coast Guard cutters. During the early morning hours of February 3, the German submarine U-223 torpedoed the vessel off Newfoundland. Over 900 souls were on board.
Also aboard were four chaplains—Alexander Goode, John Washington, George Fox, and Clark Poling—representing different faiths, who comforted soldiers and sacrificed their own lives to save others when the Dorchester sank.
In twenty-five minutes, one torpedo killed more than a quarter of the number of personnel lost during the entire attack on Pearl Harbor. Chaplains helped the soldiers board lifeboats and gave up their own life jackets when the supply ran out. The chaplains went down with the ship. The sinking of the Dorchester would go down in the annals of history as the worst single loss of US personnel of any American convoy during the entire conflict.
Collis alternates between accounts told from the perspective of the Nazi U-boat captain and his crew (as found in their journals and later interviews) and survivors from the Dorchester who credit the four chaplains with saving their lives. Coastguardsman Charles Walter David, Jr., emerges as another hero, rescuing 93 survivors from the frigid waters. The scene of the men freezing to death in the water was heart-wrenching.
However, the book falters in execution. The abundance of military names and vessels confused me, and the narrative’s textbook-style lacked emotional depth. A shift to historical fiction might have better conveyed the story’s power. Despite these flaws, The Immortals remains a worthwhile exploration of faith and sacrifice amid WWII's forgotten episodes.
** Thanks to the publisher for a review copy of this book. The opinions are my own.
March 6, 2022
“Because he was one of them. Because he was they, and they were he. Because in his efforts, he bore witness to his humanity.”
4 ministers of different religious backgrounds (Jewish rabbi, Catholic priest, Baptist and Methodist ministers) form an unheard of alliance (in that day, there was no connections between leaders of different religious affiliations) as ecumenical chaplains to the 900 men aboard the SS Dorcester which was torpedoed by a German U-boat during WWII. A non-fiction that reads like a fiction will leave you inspired by the selfless acts of Alexander Goode, John Washington, George Fox and Clark Poling, the “immortal chaplains” that gave their lives to save and give hope to as many men as they could as their ship went down off the Greenland coast. The book also honors the heroic acts of Charles Walter David, a black petty officer aboard the Coast Guard cutter that accompanied the SS Dorcester. He voluntarily dove into freezing waters time and time again, crossing racial divisions, miraculously rescuing 93 of the surviving men drifting in the sea.
This book was meticulously researched, tenderly sharing details of each hero’s personal story, the stories of the men they saved, and the aftermaths following their deaths. It also shares the perspective of the uboat officer that torpedoed the Dorcester. It’s a short read, and an experience well worth learning about. It’s a story I was not familiar with in WW2. It had a Titanic feel to it, but in a wartime setting. I found out there is a memorial not far from me… I want to visit to pay respects to these souls that sacrificed so much. Pick up the read!
“They had been lost to the world for nearly three-quarters of a century, but they lived. In the faces of squealing children, families uniting over reunion meals, the eyes of children yet to be born, they lived.”
4 ministers of different religious backgrounds (Jewish rabbi, Catholic priest, Baptist and Methodist ministers) form an unheard of alliance (in that day, there was no connections between leaders of different religious affiliations) as ecumenical chaplains to the 900 men aboard the SS Dorcester which was torpedoed by a German U-boat during WWII. A non-fiction that reads like a fiction will leave you inspired by the selfless acts of Alexander Goode, John Washington, George Fox and Clark Poling, the “immortal chaplains” that gave their lives to save and give hope to as many men as they could as their ship went down off the Greenland coast. The book also honors the heroic acts of Charles Walter David, a black petty officer aboard the Coast Guard cutter that accompanied the SS Dorcester. He voluntarily dove into freezing waters time and time again, crossing racial divisions, miraculously rescuing 93 of the surviving men drifting in the sea.
This book was meticulously researched, tenderly sharing details of each hero’s personal story, the stories of the men they saved, and the aftermaths following their deaths. It also shares the perspective of the uboat officer that torpedoed the Dorcester. It’s a short read, and an experience well worth learning about. It’s a story I was not familiar with in WW2. It had a Titanic feel to it, but in a wartime setting. I found out there is a memorial not far from me… I want to visit to pay respects to these souls that sacrificed so much. Pick up the read!
“They had been lost to the world for nearly three-quarters of a century, but they lived. In the faces of squealing children, families uniting over reunion meals, the eyes of children yet to be born, they lived.”
May 23, 2021
I have always loved reading about historical events and The Immortals is something quite amazing! This book tells the story of the four chaplains that were aboard the SS Dorchester who offered prayers and support to the 900 men aboard the vessel. They knew that a German submarine was hunting them. I can't imagine anything more terrifying than that knowing you are being hunted down by your enemies.
After the unthinkable happens, readers are then introduced to another unknown hero named, Charles Walter David Junior. This brave young, Coastguardsman traveled alongside the SS Dorchester. After the attack, that night, out of the 227 survivors of the Dorchester, David helped rescue 93 of them. He was described as a “tower of strength.” But hero David contracted pneumonia after helping rescue his stranded shipmates and died 54 days later — on March 29, 1943.
I was amazed at how this story is told both from the sides of the Americans and the German Nazi U-Boat Captain. I loved learning the stories behind the chaplains too. Such an interesting mix of people who went on to become heroes during the beginning of WWII. This book is truly a history lover's dream being so well researched and also all of the added endnotes for each chapter. You can go off on your own to find more information about anything mentioned in this book.
The Immortals: The World War II Story of Five Fearless Heroes, the Sinking of the Dorchester, and an Awe-inspiring Rescue is such an inspiring read that will make you grateful for all of the unsung heroes and the many sacrifices made to maintain freedoms for Americans and many others throughout the world. Well done and huge accolades to Author Steven T. Collins.
After the unthinkable happens, readers are then introduced to another unknown hero named, Charles Walter David Junior. This brave young, Coastguardsman traveled alongside the SS Dorchester. After the attack, that night, out of the 227 survivors of the Dorchester, David helped rescue 93 of them. He was described as a “tower of strength.” But hero David contracted pneumonia after helping rescue his stranded shipmates and died 54 days later — on March 29, 1943.
I was amazed at how this story is told both from the sides of the Americans and the German Nazi U-Boat Captain. I loved learning the stories behind the chaplains too. Such an interesting mix of people who went on to become heroes during the beginning of WWII. This book is truly a history lover's dream being so well researched and also all of the added endnotes for each chapter. You can go off on your own to find more information about anything mentioned in this book.
The Immortals: The World War II Story of Five Fearless Heroes, the Sinking of the Dorchester, and an Awe-inspiring Rescue is such an inspiring read that will make you grateful for all of the unsung heroes and the many sacrifices made to maintain freedoms for Americans and many others throughout the world. Well done and huge accolades to Author Steven T. Collins.
January 31, 2021
The Immortals by Steven T. Collis is an excellent nonfiction book that goes deeper into the fascinating heroics of several men that sacrificed it all for their fellow men during the disaster of the sinking of the Dorchester during WWII.
This is a gripping novel that I read so fast, I could have sworn it was fiction. Sadly, I did not know of these five specific men that sacrificed their lives in 1943 so that others may live. The bravery, the humbleness, the fear that they must have experienced and overcome during this tragedy took my breath away. I really enjoyed being able to learn more about not only the four men: Alexander Goode, John Washington, ClarkPoling, and George Fox (the four clergymen), but also the wonderful addition of another brave man that gave up his life: petty officer Charles Walter Davis, Jr. I am in awe of the selflessness and patriotism that these men clearly exhibited during this real-life tragedy.
I truly enjoyed this book, I was able to learn so much more, and I am truly blessed to have had the privilege to hear these men’s stories.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Shadow Mountain Publishing for this ARC and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication.
This is a gripping novel that I read so fast, I could have sworn it was fiction. Sadly, I did not know of these five specific men that sacrificed their lives in 1943 so that others may live. The bravery, the humbleness, the fear that they must have experienced and overcome during this tragedy took my breath away. I really enjoyed being able to learn more about not only the four men: Alexander Goode, John Washington, ClarkPoling, and George Fox (the four clergymen), but also the wonderful addition of another brave man that gave up his life: petty officer Charles Walter Davis, Jr. I am in awe of the selflessness and patriotism that these men clearly exhibited during this real-life tragedy.
I truly enjoyed this book, I was able to learn so much more, and I am truly blessed to have had the privilege to hear these men’s stories.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Shadow Mountain Publishing for this ARC and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication.
June 11, 2021
I rarely give a five star review any more. I do so gladly today. The Immortals is every bit as carefully researched and presented as John Adams by David McCullough. As captivating as The Perfect Storm by Sebastian Junger. Better than anything I’ve read on race and diversity in America. This book is flawlessly crafted and an absolute treasure! The true story of five most superlative lives and their lasting legacy. I was inspired, awakened, uplifted and deeply humbled by this finest of literary experiences! Thank you for the gift of this timeless story!
May 30, 2021
This is a great telling of this story!
Steve Collis has done a fantastic job weaving together the stories of these heroes.
In full disclosure, I am somewhat biased. I have known this story my whole life.
Charles W. David Jr. saved my grandfather, Robert W. Anderson, that fateful night in February of 1943.
I owe Charles David everything. For that reason, I have always wanted his story told in the way it deserves to be told. Steve Collis has done that . . . and more.
I am a fan of Erik Larson and other similar historical narrative writers. Collis has proven that he can write with the best of them.
An important story needs a great writer. I am beyond pleased with what Steve Collis has done.
This is a must read.
Steve Collis has done a fantastic job weaving together the stories of these heroes.
In full disclosure, I am somewhat biased. I have known this story my whole life.
Charles W. David Jr. saved my grandfather, Robert W. Anderson, that fateful night in February of 1943.
I owe Charles David everything. For that reason, I have always wanted his story told in the way it deserves to be told. Steve Collis has done that . . . and more.
I am a fan of Erik Larson and other similar historical narrative writers. Collis has proven that he can write with the best of them.
An important story needs a great writer. I am beyond pleased with what Steve Collis has done.
This is a must read.
July 4, 2022
First: Google Scott's stamp catalog #956, issued by the United Postal Service in 1948. Titled, "The Four Immortal Chaplains", it commemorates the four chaplains aboard the USS Dorchester, a converted ocean liner converted troop transporter torpedoed in the glacial frigid waters off of Greenland on February 22, 1943 in WW II. More than 900 men were on board. 678 were lost in the sinking or in the hypothermic waters off Greenland or perished later from exposure. This, then, is the well-told story of the four chaplains, each from separate religious backgrounds who spent the entire time after the torpedo attack rallying soldiers to the lifeboats, giving up their own lifevests to those who had none, perished in their ministeries that others might live. It also tells the little-known story the Coast Guard petty officer who later died of exposure and pneumonia thought primarily caused by repetitive trips into the icy seas to rescue multiple people, one after another. It also tells the tale of those left behind: family and loved ones. These heroes were real people with just as much to lose as the ones they rescued. A tale for all times, and "for those who go down to the sea in ships." As well, for those who just read about them. I did not know that chaplain corps in the two world wars had one of the highest mortality rates of any branch of the five different services.
May 25, 2021
Plot:
Called the Immortal Chaplains, these four men were on board the SS Dorchester when it sank in the arctic waters off of Greenland on February 3, 1943, after being hit by a German U-boat. They used their own lives to save others by giving those in need their lifejackets, gloves, and shoelaces to survive. During this era members of different faiths did not associate with each other, thus the four of them working together as a team throughout their time on the SS Dorchester and while it was sinking, made these men into the memorial heroes we remember and treasure today. However, there was a fifth hero that helped out during the SS Dorchester despite it not being part of his duty because he was Black. It was not in Petty Officer Charles Water David Jr. 's duty to help, but he did anyway, being the first to step up, Charles and his team managed to save 93 men from death, before ultimately losing his own life to the sea after successfully saving his friend. Throughout this story, Steven Collis tells the life these five men lived, their time at sea, and what happened to their families afterward. These men were heroes of the World War Two era, and gave up their lives so that others could live, as when the SS Dorchester sank it killed 674 out of 904 people on board, and it would have been more without our five heroes.
Thoughts:
What a powerful and moving story that Steven Collis presents within this novel. This story documents the lives of the four Immortal Chaplains plus the life of Charles Water David Jr. who is only recently making headlines for his contribution to the effort of saving lives when the SS Dorchester sank. Collis put a lot of work and research into this novel, from documenting the early lives of our five heroes, what people said about them when they were about the sea, and how their deaths impacted their families, all the men had wives with young children waiting for their return. Where this book is about faith, as four out of the five men were chaplains, religion and faith were not a huge part of the story but did speak to the character of each of the men who did what they did out of faith as that is what their God intended them to do. Collins mentioned several times how close their four chaplains were together, and made note of how rare and odd it was seeing these men of different faith act as if best friends towards each other. The main issue with this novel is that its writing style was a bit weird sometimes, as it had the making of a history textbook but told in a narrative way, kind of like a written documentary. Divided into three parts, Collis had long chapters that were divided into paragraphs, allowing it to be easy reading, as Collis switched between each of the five men and their lives that led them to save the lives of those aboard the SS Dorchester while tragically losing their own. Overall, this novel was heartbreakingly beautiful, allowing recognition to our five heroes, and made sure that their names will forever be remembered throughout history.
Alexander Goode
John Washington
George Fox
Clark Poling
Charles Water David Jr
Thank you for your sacrifice
Called the Immortal Chaplains, these four men were on board the SS Dorchester when it sank in the arctic waters off of Greenland on February 3, 1943, after being hit by a German U-boat. They used their own lives to save others by giving those in need their lifejackets, gloves, and shoelaces to survive. During this era members of different faiths did not associate with each other, thus the four of them working together as a team throughout their time on the SS Dorchester and while it was sinking, made these men into the memorial heroes we remember and treasure today. However, there was a fifth hero that helped out during the SS Dorchester despite it not being part of his duty because he was Black. It was not in Petty Officer Charles Water David Jr. 's duty to help, but he did anyway, being the first to step up, Charles and his team managed to save 93 men from death, before ultimately losing his own life to the sea after successfully saving his friend. Throughout this story, Steven Collis tells the life these five men lived, their time at sea, and what happened to their families afterward. These men were heroes of the World War Two era, and gave up their lives so that others could live, as when the SS Dorchester sank it killed 674 out of 904 people on board, and it would have been more without our five heroes.
Thoughts:
What a powerful and moving story that Steven Collis presents within this novel. This story documents the lives of the four Immortal Chaplains plus the life of Charles Water David Jr. who is only recently making headlines for his contribution to the effort of saving lives when the SS Dorchester sank. Collis put a lot of work and research into this novel, from documenting the early lives of our five heroes, what people said about them when they were about the sea, and how their deaths impacted their families, all the men had wives with young children waiting for their return. Where this book is about faith, as four out of the five men were chaplains, religion and faith were not a huge part of the story but did speak to the character of each of the men who did what they did out of faith as that is what their God intended them to do. Collins mentioned several times how close their four chaplains were together, and made note of how rare and odd it was seeing these men of different faith act as if best friends towards each other. The main issue with this novel is that its writing style was a bit weird sometimes, as it had the making of a history textbook but told in a narrative way, kind of like a written documentary. Divided into three parts, Collis had long chapters that were divided into paragraphs, allowing it to be easy reading, as Collis switched between each of the five men and their lives that led them to save the lives of those aboard the SS Dorchester while tragically losing their own. Overall, this novel was heartbreakingly beautiful, allowing recognition to our five heroes, and made sure that their names will forever be remembered throughout history.
Alexander Goode
John Washington
George Fox
Clark Poling
Charles Water David Jr
Thank you for your sacrifice
June 1, 2021
This is the inspiring true story of four WWII chaplains and their service to the 900 men on the ship Dorchester that was hit by a torpedo. It is also the story of the only Black man on a coast guard cutter who helped rescue the men from the Dorchester and lost his life as a result.
Alex is a Jewish rabbi, John is a Catholic priest, George is a Methodist minister, and Clark is a Baptist minister. They were able to overlook their differences and focus on a common cause, a great lesson for us today. None of the chaplains needed to die but they chose to so other men could live. The most moving part of their story for me is the image of them linking arms and praying together, each in their own way, as the ship went down. Even after they were gone, the men in the water were able to survive by remembering the calming and encouraging voices of the chaplains.
Charles is a young Black steward’s mate who willingly entered the frigid water repeatedly to help men to safety and later died of pneumonia. It was not required of him because there were many with a higher rank. Even though he played a huge active role in saving the men from the Dorchester, his full story has never been included until now.
It was very well written and interesting. The author does an excellent job of pulling you into the story and keeping you there even though we all know how it ends. I highly recommend it to anyone, not just those interested in history, and think this would make a great gift. Thanks to Shadow Mountain Publishing for an ARC to use for my review.
Alex is a Jewish rabbi, John is a Catholic priest, George is a Methodist minister, and Clark is a Baptist minister. They were able to overlook their differences and focus on a common cause, a great lesson for us today. None of the chaplains needed to die but they chose to so other men could live. The most moving part of their story for me is the image of them linking arms and praying together, each in their own way, as the ship went down. Even after they were gone, the men in the water were able to survive by remembering the calming and encouraging voices of the chaplains.
Charles is a young Black steward’s mate who willingly entered the frigid water repeatedly to help men to safety and later died of pneumonia. It was not required of him because there were many with a higher rank. Even though he played a huge active role in saving the men from the Dorchester, his full story has never been included until now.
It was very well written and interesting. The author does an excellent job of pulling you into the story and keeping you there even though we all know how it ends. I highly recommend it to anyone, not just those interested in history, and think this would make a great gift. Thanks to Shadow Mountain Publishing for an ARC to use for my review.
June 8, 2021
I was drawn to The Immortals by Steven T. Colis when I saw the blurb on Net Galley about this book, published this month, focusing on a group of medical chaplains and a young Black petty officer who were heroes in the sinking of the Dorchester on February 3, 1943. Since my husband spent about half of his military career as a chapel administrator, my interest was aroused. Even with that anticipation, I found more than I expected. The author begins with each of the men and recounts their life journeys that bring them to this point. The chaplains were Jewish, Catholic, Methodist, and Baptist, each with a family story and a personal sense of calling.
Part of the narrative is devoted to the role of the modern military chaplain with their ecumenical need to serve all soldiers, not just the ones who share their particular brand of faith. In this period of time, the chaplains were in the process of moving from previous ideas of ministering to those of their own denomination to a broader umbrella and with a sense of service to all the troops. For instance, instructions given by a medical officer to a group of chaplains set the tone for their role in the military as he told of a chaplain he knew who, “always dropped back in the line towards the close of the day and somewhere he would find a young soldier who would be having trouble carrying his rifle along with his pack so the chaplain would carry his rifle for him. That, chaplains, is your job – to carry rifles for boys and they will not always be of wood and steel but burdens, problems, sins, and sorrows.” I found a very accurate account of the role and ministry of the chaplaincy.
Having laid that background as a framework, Steven Colis goes on to tell the story of the convoy that nears safety in Greenland as the Nazi U-boat captain Kark-Jurg Wachter stalks the Americans for days, waiting for the weather to give him an opening for a strike. The riveting story is well-researched and written with as much tension as any drama. Even though this is history and I knew the ending before I began, I found myself figuratively on the edge of my seat as I read.
Part of the narrative is devoted to the role of the modern military chaplain with their ecumenical need to serve all soldiers, not just the ones who share their particular brand of faith. In this period of time, the chaplains were in the process of moving from previous ideas of ministering to those of their own denomination to a broader umbrella and with a sense of service to all the troops. For instance, instructions given by a medical officer to a group of chaplains set the tone for their role in the military as he told of a chaplain he knew who, “always dropped back in the line towards the close of the day and somewhere he would find a young soldier who would be having trouble carrying his rifle along with his pack so the chaplain would carry his rifle for him. That, chaplains, is your job – to carry rifles for boys and they will not always be of wood and steel but burdens, problems, sins, and sorrows.” I found a very accurate account of the role and ministry of the chaplaincy.
Having laid that background as a framework, Steven Colis goes on to tell the story of the convoy that nears safety in Greenland as the Nazi U-boat captain Kark-Jurg Wachter stalks the Americans for days, waiting for the weather to give him an opening for a strike. The riveting story is well-researched and written with as much tension as any drama. Even though this is history and I knew the ending before I began, I found myself figuratively on the edge of my seat as I read.
June 10, 2021
**I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. My words and review are my very own. As always.**
War books are not my favorites. Ever. People killing people just doesn't interest me. BUT! People interest me. And people going outside of themselves to help another member of humanity always interests me. Thus, this book.
Part one briefly sets up the preparation of all parties. There was some great information about the beliefs Hitler held about the US prior to WWII which I had never heard. (Probably because of my aforementioned aversion to the topic). The author weaves together expertly crafted biographies of the men and women whose stories will coalesce in the conflict and does so with excellent narrative pacing and detail. Who are the chaplains? Who are those closest to them? Who are the men on the ship/U-boat/cutter? All here.
Part two describes what is happening as the SS Dorchester, a United States Coast Guard cutter called the Comanche, and a German U-boat 223 become closer and closer tied to part of one another's history. Spies and goodbyes, apprehension and fear. All here.
Part three grabs hold of all the information and holds it tight as the story of each decision is told (please note, each chapter has excellent source citations for further reading, or if you're wondering where the author could possibly have learned such precise detail). This is the part of the book I basically raced through. I did not want to take a break or pause. The story had me in its grasp and I was willing to be there as long as it took to learn about the four chaplains, and how Charles W. David Jr. made sure men that were rescued from the Dorchester did not perish adrift at sea.
What an untold and marvelous story. If you already know the story of the Dorchester or the four chaplains, you need to read this book to get the rest of the story.
War books are not my favorites. Ever. People killing people just doesn't interest me. BUT! People interest me. And people going outside of themselves to help another member of humanity always interests me. Thus, this book.
Part one briefly sets up the preparation of all parties. There was some great information about the beliefs Hitler held about the US prior to WWII which I had never heard. (Probably because of my aforementioned aversion to the topic). The author weaves together expertly crafted biographies of the men and women whose stories will coalesce in the conflict and does so with excellent narrative pacing and detail. Who are the chaplains? Who are those closest to them? Who are the men on the ship/U-boat/cutter? All here.
Part two describes what is happening as the SS Dorchester, a United States Coast Guard cutter called the Comanche, and a German U-boat 223 become closer and closer tied to part of one another's history. Spies and goodbyes, apprehension and fear. All here.
Part three grabs hold of all the information and holds it tight as the story of each decision is told (please note, each chapter has excellent source citations for further reading, or if you're wondering where the author could possibly have learned such precise detail). This is the part of the book I basically raced through. I did not want to take a break or pause. The story had me in its grasp and I was willing to be there as long as it took to learn about the four chaplains, and how Charles W. David Jr. made sure men that were rescued from the Dorchester did not perish adrift at sea.
What an untold and marvelous story. If you already know the story of the Dorchester or the four chaplains, you need to read this book to get the rest of the story.
June 2, 2021
I spent the evening of Memorial Day finishing this beautiful reminder of why we remember and honor those gave up so much for us and our freedoms. I hadn’t ever heard of the Immortals and I am so glad Steven T Collis took time to share their stories in a remarkable way.
This novel is a non fiction written with the gripping story telling of a fiction novel. I can only imagine the thousands of hours that went into researching and gathering all the stories and accounts of the lives of these impressive men.
I am thoroughly impressed at how much impact the words in this novel had on me. My heart and stomach tightened as I read many of the accounts the survivors had.
I love that there are SO many lessons that can be taken from this book. I highlighted several passages because I thought they were very much applicable to where we stand as a country today.
One of my favorite paragraphs from this book was
“People with vast differences could unite and thrive together; they could lift each other, forgive, ignore the temptation for prejudice, embrace common causes without sacrificing their core identities, and set aside their disagreements to focus on areas where they did agree. Unity didn’t need to come at the expense of identity.”
It’s a lesson that I think we need to hear every day and practice. Four chaplains, all from different backgrounds, religions, and stations in life came together and gave the ultimate sacrifice to those who were also just as different from themselves. And Charles, he is a hero that deserves the same attention as those chaplains. He didn’t have to give up his life, he didn’t have to help out those who probably wouldn’t have done the same for him. I really appreciated reading the afterword by his family, the legacy he has left behind is strong and one I am sure he would be proud of.
Do yourself a favor and grab a couple copies of this book, you’ll want one to keep for yourself and some to give to others. These are the memories that deserve to live on and honored.
To end, I loved this quote and the thoughts it left me with.
“The Nazis didn’t kill them. They chose to die so others could live. So did Charles. He carried precisely zero burden to help anyone. His efforts were his choice. He was a victim to no one.”
* netgalley provided me an ebook copy of this novel, but these thoughts are completely my own.
This novel is a non fiction written with the gripping story telling of a fiction novel. I can only imagine the thousands of hours that went into researching and gathering all the stories and accounts of the lives of these impressive men.
I am thoroughly impressed at how much impact the words in this novel had on me. My heart and stomach tightened as I read many of the accounts the survivors had.
I love that there are SO many lessons that can be taken from this book. I highlighted several passages because I thought they were very much applicable to where we stand as a country today.
One of my favorite paragraphs from this book was
“People with vast differences could unite and thrive together; they could lift each other, forgive, ignore the temptation for prejudice, embrace common causes without sacrificing their core identities, and set aside their disagreements to focus on areas where they did agree. Unity didn’t need to come at the expense of identity.”
It’s a lesson that I think we need to hear every day and practice. Four chaplains, all from different backgrounds, religions, and stations in life came together and gave the ultimate sacrifice to those who were also just as different from themselves. And Charles, he is a hero that deserves the same attention as those chaplains. He didn’t have to give up his life, he didn’t have to help out those who probably wouldn’t have done the same for him. I really appreciated reading the afterword by his family, the legacy he has left behind is strong and one I am sure he would be proud of.
Do yourself a favor and grab a couple copies of this book, you’ll want one to keep for yourself and some to give to others. These are the memories that deserve to live on and honored.
To end, I loved this quote and the thoughts it left me with.
“The Nazis didn’t kill them. They chose to die so others could live. So did Charles. He carried precisely zero burden to help anyone. His efforts were his choice. He was a victim to no one.”
* netgalley provided me an ebook copy of this novel, but these thoughts are completely my own.
June 2, 2021
The first time I heard of this amazing story from WWII was when I received a copy of The Immortals.
Before I received this book, I had not heard of the Dorchester nor of any of its heroes. While I have learned this is not the first telling of this story, it is the first time that Charles Walter David, Jr., has been included.
I found his story to be even more moving than the chaplains. To willingly dive into the dark frigid waters over and over amazes me. I was a competitive swimmer in my younger years. While I know how difficult cold water swimming can be, I cannot imagine waters quite so frigid and terrifying as the North Atlantic.
Mr. Collis included an afterword from the family of Charles David, Jr., shedding additional light on his too-long ignored legacy. Don’t skip it.
Alternating between the stories of our heroes, and that of the German U-boat commander adds additional depth to the story. While we learn a little of the role he played in the event, I didn’t find enough to really get a sense of who he was, as I did with our heroes. I found the perspective interesting, but I didn’t learn enough for it to change the story.
Including the story of Charles David, and the way in which the United States discriminated against servicemen of color in WWII, also makes the point that our country was not without its flaws.
Most of the first half of the book focuses on getting to know our heroes. We learn about their upbringing, their families, and how religion and society interacted. Once they take their shipboard assignments, the story centers on their relationships with one another and with the men they are assigned to serve. And here we see their true characters.
I recommend The Immortals to anyone who is a student of history, who enjoys learning about WWII, or who wants to read an uplifting story of true heroism.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
Before I received this book, I had not heard of the Dorchester nor of any of its heroes. While I have learned this is not the first telling of this story, it is the first time that Charles Walter David, Jr., has been included.
I found his story to be even more moving than the chaplains. To willingly dive into the dark frigid waters over and over amazes me. I was a competitive swimmer in my younger years. While I know how difficult cold water swimming can be, I cannot imagine waters quite so frigid and terrifying as the North Atlantic.
Mr. Collis included an afterword from the family of Charles David, Jr., shedding additional light on his too-long ignored legacy. Don’t skip it.
Alternating between the stories of our heroes, and that of the German U-boat commander adds additional depth to the story. While we learn a little of the role he played in the event, I didn’t find enough to really get a sense of who he was, as I did with our heroes. I found the perspective interesting, but I didn’t learn enough for it to change the story.
Including the story of Charles David, and the way in which the United States discriminated against servicemen of color in WWII, also makes the point that our country was not without its flaws.
Most of the first half of the book focuses on getting to know our heroes. We learn about their upbringing, their families, and how religion and society interacted. Once they take their shipboard assignments, the story centers on their relationships with one another and with the men they are assigned to serve. And here we see their true characters.
I recommend The Immortals to anyone who is a student of history, who enjoys learning about WWII, or who wants to read an uplifting story of true heroism.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
July 10, 2025
Fascinating story, well written. It was a story from WWII that I had never heard before. I wasn't expecting to sob at the end.
The format was a bit confusing, and I sometimes got the individuals mixed up. I believe this was partly due to my listening to the audiobook instead of reading a physical book. It would have been helpful if the author had taken the time to discuss each person's background individually before connecting their experiences. Instead, the narrative jumped between people, which made it challenging to follow at the beginning.
The format was a bit confusing, and I sometimes got the individuals mixed up. I believe this was partly due to my listening to the audiobook instead of reading a physical book. It would have been helpful if the author had taken the time to discuss each person's background individually before connecting their experiences. Instead, the narrative jumped between people, which made it challenging to follow at the beginning.
March 6, 2022
This is an incredible, true story of four military chaplains and one Navy seaman who gave it all to help save survivors from the Dorchester in WWII. It is inspirational, reminding the reader of the price often paid for our freedom and how other lives are touched, especially families of those who pay the ultimate price. I've just been selected chapter Librarian for my DAR chapter and I will recommend this book to our members.
May 19, 2021
In 1943, a ship was torpedoed and four American Chaplains did what they could to save as many lives as possible. They were heralded as heroes, but unfortunately they sacrificed their own lives. While in the process of getting as many soldiers to safety they were observed by a young Black Coast Guard Steward who then took up where they left off and dived in countless times to drag men out of the icy water to get more of these men to safety as well. Charles David, Jr. put his own life at peril and he too later died from his heroic undertakings.
This book is truly Unique in that it goes beyond the normal research of a historical event. The author has created such timeless caring of these individuals and their families who had to live with their chosen decisions to join and give these soldiers love and faith.
I read the book without stopping and cried like a baby. My husband asked me what had me so emotional and when I told him he had to research on his own the Immortal Chaplains. We both had never heard of them and we pray that with this book they are not forgotten along with the rest of the crew who lost their lives and Charles David Jr. the Steward from the kitchen who died after diving in the icy waters numerous times to drag crew to safety.
I definitely would recommend this book to anyone looking for a true story of historical significance!
I received a free advanced copy from NetGalley and these are my willingly given thoughts and opinions.
This book is truly Unique in that it goes beyond the normal research of a historical event. The author has created such timeless caring of these individuals and their families who had to live with their chosen decisions to join and give these soldiers love and faith.
I read the book without stopping and cried like a baby. My husband asked me what had me so emotional and when I told him he had to research on his own the Immortal Chaplains. We both had never heard of them and we pray that with this book they are not forgotten along with the rest of the crew who lost their lives and Charles David Jr. the Steward from the kitchen who died after diving in the icy waters numerous times to drag crew to safety.
I definitely would recommend this book to anyone looking for a true story of historical significance!
I received a free advanced copy from NetGalley and these are my willingly given thoughts and opinions.
May 28, 2021
#The immortals #Netgalley
This book is written in narrative form, a true story about five Chaplins aboard a World War II ship, titled the Dorchester. The book is well writtenm My dad was in World War. II and was part of a convoy; which elped me appreciate how hard life would have been aboard the ship; so many man crammed together. The instinct of survival, when the ship was hit by torpedoes. The bravery of the Chaplins, and others, namely Charles W Davis Jr, and his act of humanity to save lives a black man who gave his life so others could live.
This book is written in narrative form, a true story about five Chaplins aboard a World War II ship, titled the Dorchester. The book is well writtenm My dad was in World War. II and was part of a convoy; which elped me appreciate how hard life would have been aboard the ship; so many man crammed together. The instinct of survival, when the ship was hit by torpedoes. The bravery of the Chaplins, and others, namely Charles W Davis Jr, and his act of humanity to save lives a black man who gave his life so others could live.
November 15, 2021
Maybe 4.5 stars because the writing was a bit simple. But then again that helped make it very readable, so that’s a good thing. The story is amazing! 5 true heroes in the middle of WWII and their sacrifice in such tough circumstances. I’m so glad I read this!
April 15, 2022
3.5 probably is more accurate. It was informational and gave a lot of details about the men involved. My main issue was the effort to add drama or feeling where it wasn’t needed by making up possibilities of what conversations happened or what the men were thinking.
June 6, 2021
Inspiring and humbling, this book was a remarkable telling of five heroic men willing to literally give up all they had to serve and protect others. The author neatly weaves what could have been simply dull facts and statistics into a fascinating and edge-of-your-seat page-turner. A harrowing story but one which, once again, proves those who served in WWII were truly those of The Greatest Generation.
January 31, 2024
Inspirational story; I am glad I picked it as the first read for my WWII book club. I knocked a star off because the writing had problems: I wish the editing had been better.
June 7, 2021
Remarkable story I knew nothing about. Really incredible.
May 25, 2021
I can't really say that this is an unbiased review because I seriously geek history. It's focus is both familiar and not, It is more timely in that there are interviews cited as well as many other sources. The inclusion of Coastguardsman Charles Water David Jr., a young Black Coast Guard Steward from the kitchens (David helped rescue 93 men from the SS Dorchester) provided an inspection of racism in America as well as the attitudes and discrimination against whoever was of particular groups. The SS Dorchester and a small convoy sailed the perilous route from Newfoundland to the Army Command Base in Greenland and was assaulted by U-boats and a wolf-pack resulting in the worst single loss of an American personnel convoy during WWII. The documentation is impeccable, so if you've never heard the true story of these brave doomed men including what made them choose to become Chaplains, it behooves you to learn what the best can be. Excellent!
I requested and received a free temporary ebook from Shadow Mountain Publishing via NetGalley. Thank you!
I requested and received a free temporary ebook from Shadow Mountain Publishing via NetGalley. Thank you!
May 28, 2021
I love reading about unsung heroes. These were stories I had never heard before and they were amazing.
May 30, 2021
Four chaplains are prepared to serve their country during WWII. Although of different faiths, these men were able to form a close friendship and assist each other in all things having to do with their ministries. All four are placed on the Dorchester, a troop carrier headed towards combat. They have to travel through waters known to have German U-boats patrolling. It is a compelling narrative on the lives of these men and their heroic actions on that fated boat. We also get to have a look at petty officer Charles Walter David Jr, a black man who was only allowed to serve his country in the kitchens of the boat. He also showed great heroics in helping rescue many men off that boat- men that possibly in the past had been hateful towards him.
I was not expecting a historical telling of this story. At times it did feel a little dry- but that’s completely on me. Apparently there’s another book about these 4 men out there that I’d be interested in looking into, as well as a memorial in NJ that I’d love to go find and see. An interesting story and I’m glad the author was able to bring in the story of Charles Walter and how it had affected his posterity. I enjoyed hearing about the posterity of all these men. Would recommend!
Thanks for NetGalley and Shadow Mountain for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I was not expecting a historical telling of this story. At times it did feel a little dry- but that’s completely on me. Apparently there’s another book about these 4 men out there that I’d be interested in looking into, as well as a memorial in NJ that I’d love to go find and see. An interesting story and I’m glad the author was able to bring in the story of Charles Walter and how it had affected his posterity. I enjoyed hearing about the posterity of all these men. Would recommend!
Thanks for NetGalley and Shadow Mountain for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
May 26, 2021
This is truly an awe-inspiring story. The courage these 5 men had in the face of life and death, the encouragement and love they showed, the sacrifices not only they made but their families shows the core goodness in people. Highly recommend this book.
May 23, 2021
This is a great book for all historical fiction lovers and WW2 enthusiasts.. Steven has written a wonderful book centering around each of these five individuals highlighting what made them choose to become Chaplains.. A lot of research went into this book, there were several times I was left feeling a lot of emotions. Steven did a wonderful job of retelling the story of these amazing men..
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