Emil Joseph Kapaun

Fallen Hero’s Hometown and State: Pilsen, KS

Branch of Service: United States Army

Rank: Chaplain Capt.

This heroic Catholic Priest first served in Burma and India at the tail end of World War II. He later fought with the 1st Cavalry Division in Korea. Father Kapaun was awarded the Medal of Honor for rescuing dozens of wounded soldiers at the Battle of Unsan and for remaining with them as they were overcome by the enemy. He continued to serve the men until his death in a North Korean Prison Camp.

Father Kapaun was a humble, hard-working farmboy from Kansas who wanted to bring Christ’s love to people in need. He found his calling as an Army Chaplain. As a non-combatant and prisoner of war, Father Kapaun continually risked his life to serve his “boys”, physically, mentally and spiritually. He always had a pipe with him on the battlefield.

Many of Father Kapaun’s fellow prisoners of war said they only made it home because of the hope he gave them, as well as the food he stole for them and the ways he coaxed life out of their bodies. The Catholic Church is pursuing his cause for sainthood, and many believe he still intercedes for people in need today.

Age: 36

Date of Death: May 23, 1951