Father Duffy's Plaque Goes to New London
January 6, 1999

Several weeks ago we told the story of Father John E. Duffy, a St. Wendelin priest in the late 1920s, who was recently inducted into the Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame.

Accepting the plaque on behalf of Father Duffy, who died in 1958, was Fostorian Joe Gehring.

Father Duffy was an authentic American hero during World War II. He assisted in the defense of Pearl Harbor and survived the Bataan Death March in spite of being twice bayoneted.

He escaped to serve with Filipino guerrillas before being recaptured by the Japanese.

From 1943 until the war's end, he was interned in several Japanese POW camps.

Throughout his imprisonment, he selflessly ministered to the spiritual and physical needs of other prisoners.

On Dec. 14, a delegation from the Seneca County Veterans Commission presented the plaque to the New London Broome-Wood American Legion Post 292. Attending were Joe Gehring, Tom Evans, Tom Gernert, Jim Rochester and Jim McAuliffe.

Following his discharge from the Army in 1946, Father Duffy became pastor of New London's Our Lady of Lourdes Church, a position he held until his death. In addition, Father Duffy served as Commander of Post 292, 1947-49. He was also the Legion National Chaplain in 1952-53 and Chaplain of the State of Ohio American Legion.

So it was fitting that the plaque honoring his service should find a permanent place in the community that knew him best.

Joe Gehring presented the plaque to Post 292 Commander Ted Mahl.

"I knew Father Duffy when I was 10 or 11 years old," said Joe. "He came to visit me. I had double pneumonia and he gave me last sacraments. That always stuck with me. He tapped me on the left knee, I'll never forget it. He said, 'You're going to make it, kid."

Commander Mahl said that Father Duffy was "a true American and a true humanitarian...and we all share in this great man's life."

Father Duffy is still remembered by several New London residents.

Former New London mayor Gerald Fowden recalled, "Father Duffy was interested in all the affairs of the village and he was one fine gentleman."

"He was a powerful personality, but not overwhelming and always polite," said former teacher Rock Laborie. "He was also quite a musician."

Father Duffy was an able organ player.

"He loved life," said Lois Kirkpatrick. "I think the number of times we almost lost him (in the war) increased his enthusiasm. He was very approachable. The children in the church and in the community were all very fond of him. He was a real leader."

Before going to New London on the 14th, Joe and Tom Gernert met with Rep. Paul Gillmor to request that Father Duffy be considered for the Congressional Medal of Honor, the nation's highest military award, given for distinguished service in combat at the risk of life and above the call of duty.

The plaque will find good company at Post 292.

There is a display case devoted to Father Duffy's memory. His duffel bag, medals (including the Purple Heart and Bronze Star), several photos, a sword and other items reside there, including two drawings depicting life as Japanese POW's, by Father Duffy's friend and comrade, Ben Steele, who lives in Montana.

Steele drew these striking scenes from memory after the war.

Occasionally, these items are loaned out for special presentations. Recently, several were used for a program on Americanism for schoolchildren in Galion.

Father John Duffy has been dead for 40 years now. His deeds during World War II have receded more than half a century into history.

Yet the sacrifices he made, the strength of his character and his devotion to freedom can touch us still. We have but to remember.