Elwood: The Story of a Catholic World War II Hero

by Sister Lucia Treanor FSE

Elwood Euart was born in 1914 in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, the second of seven children in a faithful Catholic family. Athletic, responsible, and likeable, Elwood was just an ordinary guy growing up in the 1920s and ’30s. He had his share of victories and defeats, accomplishments and setbacks, joys and heartaches. He went to Mass, helped his family, went to college, embarked on a military career, and advanced to the rank of captain in the U.S. Army. On October 26, 1942, in the South West Pacific Theatre of World War II, he and over 5,000 troops were aboard the SS President Coolidge when it struck two American mines while approaching a naval base. Those who were able to make it safely to shore watched as Elwood risked his life by returning to the vessel to save the remaining men on board. After rescuing the men from the infirmary unit, he was unable to escape and went down with the ship. Sister Lucia Treanor, a direct relative of Elwood, tells of his extraordinary heroism in the face of danger. But The Story of a Catholic World War II Hero is more than that — it is the story of true faith and real virtue, born of a love for God and others, which gave the young Captain Euart the fortitude to do what was needed when the time came.

176 pages, Paperback

Published October 18, 2021

Reviews

[Chloe Andersom]

One of the most compelling aspects of Elwood: The Story of a Catholic World War II Hero is that it refuses to reduce Elwood Euart's life to the moment of his death. The sinking of the SS President Coolidge and his attempt to rescue stranded soldiers would be enough to make an extraordinary historical account, but Sister Lucia Treanor goes further by showing the person behind the heroic act.

We learn about a young man growing up in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, his family, his Catholic upbringing, his education, and his military career. Those details matter because they help explain where his courage came from.

The book raises an important question: What makes an ordinary person capable of extraordinary sacrifice? Elwood's story suggests that courage is not necessarily created in the moment of crisis. It can be formed slowly through faith, responsibility, discipline, love, and service.

For anyone interested in the human side of World War II, this is a story worth exploring. It offers history, family, faith, and heroism while ultimately reminding readers of the value of putting others before oneself.

[Bennie M. Vanwinkle]

Captain Elwood Euart deserves to be remembered, and this book does a wonderful job telling his story. I appreciated learning about his childhood, family, military career, and Catholic faith before reading about his heroic final moments. His decision to return to a sinking ship to rescue others demonstrates extraordinary bravery. A meaningful read for anyone interested in World War II, history, faith, or stories of selfless sacrifice

[Grace Sullivan]

This book brings Captain Elwood Euart’s remarkable story to life while showing the person behind the heroism. His decision to return to the sinking SS President Coolidge to rescue others is deeply moving. More than a wartime story, the book explores faith, courage, duty, and the power of living for something greater than oneself.

[Sophia Noa]

An emotional and inspiring biography. The author brings Elwood’s character and faith to life while showing what led him to make the ultimate sacrifice for others. A wonderful tribute to a courageous man

[Alexander Suzan]

I found Elwood’s story both humbling and inspiring. His bravery was not about seeking recognition—it came from his sense of duty and love for others. A powerful reminder of what selflessness truly means.

[Jesse Drey]

this book beautifully captures faith in action. Elwood Euart’s decision to return to the sinking ship and rescue others shows incredible courage and selflessness. A touching story that stays with you

[Marvin Benard]

Inspiring and heartfelt. Elwood’s story demonstrates the meaning of true sacrifice. The combination of family, faith, military service, and heroism makes this a meaningful and memorable read.

[Michael Creative]

A beautifully told story of faith, duty, and sacrifice. Elwood Euart’s courage in the face of unimaginable danger is extraordinary. This book offers a personal look at the man behind the heroic act

[Jim]

This is more than a WWII story—it is a story about character and virtue. Elwood’s life shows how faith and compassion can give someone the strength to act courageously when others need help.

[James Williams]

This is more than a WWII story—it is a story about character and virtue. Elwood’s life shows how faith and compassion can give someone the strength to act courageously when others need help.

[Kevin Scott]

Sister Lucia Treanor has created a heartfelt portrait of Captain Elwood Euart and the values that guided his life. The story is both historical and deeply personal, making Elwood feel like more than a name from the past. His sacrifice aboard the SS President Coolidge is heartbreaking yet inspiring. This book is a meaningful tribute to a true Catholic hero and his legacy