William Thomas Cummings (1903–45) was an American Catholic priest and U.S. Army chaplain, known for his service in World War II and the phrase “There are no atheists in foxholes.” He was regarded as a martyr of the Philippines for his dedication to soldiers during the Battle of Bataan.
Born in San Francisco, California, he studied at Saint Patrick’s Seminary in Menlo Park and was ordained as a Maryknoll missionary priest (1928.) Sent to Manila (1940,) he taught and ministered before volunteering as a military chaplain when the U.S. entered World War II.
During the Battle of Bataan (1942,) Cummings provided spiritual support, often risking his life to administer last rites. Captured by Japanese forces, he endured the Bataan Death March, continuing to minister to fellow prisoners. He later died aboard a Japanese prison ship (1945.)
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There are no atheists in foxholes.
—William Thomas Cummings
Topics: Atheism
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