Kansas Priest May Receive Medal Of Honor
By Wyatt Earp | October 14, 2009
This is a great story. It is one which I am posting for two reasons.
First, because Father Kapaun deserves the honor, in my opinion. Second, because in light of my recent health news, I have become more attuned to my Roman Catholic faith and the great men and women who share it.
And no, I am not getting preachy here on the blog. I would have posted this story if I was perfectly healthy.
A Kansas priest already under consideration for sainthood has won the endorsement of the Army’s top civilian leader to receive the Medal of Honor.
The Rev. Emil Kapaun was a captain and chaplain in the Army in the Korean War and was taken prisoner in 1950 when the Chinese captured his unit. Kapaun continued to serve the men’s needs, risking his life to provide them with food and water amid squalid conditions.
Kapaun, a Roman Catholic, died in a prison camp seven months later.
In one of his final acts as Army secretary, Pete Geren wrote Rep. Todd Tiahrt, R-Kan., saying he agreed that Kapaun was worthy of the honor. Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has also endorsed Kapaun’s honor. (H/T – Riehl World View)
The final decision will be made by President Obama. I sincerely hope he agrees Father Kapaun’s actions are worthy of this tremendous honor.
Topics: The Troops | 7 Comments »
October 14th, 2009 at 7:58 am
Father Kaupan better get the MOH. He actually did something to save lives and provide care; which is very unlike our President who somehow manages to win the Nobel for doing absolutley nothing.
October 14th, 2009 at 9:12 am
Ditto there Bill.
It would be appropriate to have the presentation to the family here in Wichita at Kapaun-Mt. Carmel High School.
This is somewhat of a big deal here in Kansas. Imagine this man becoming a Saint ahead of Barry O.
October 14th, 2009 at 9:41 am
When two national Guardsmen from NE Kansas were killed by driving into a car bomb to stop it from killing other soldiers in a convoy, the MOH was not awarded because it “Was their duty”. Now, a Chaplain who either will be rewarded by his Church, or not, is considered almost 60 years later for the Medal. Fair is fair.
Let me say that Chaplain Kapaun did wonderful things for the men he served with. His name will be long remembered in Wichita and to those that servded with him. If he were alive today, he would want the medal for all those he served with and not want it for himself.
MUD, Col (Ret)
October 14th, 2009 at 11:37 am
A true unsung American hero. Thanks for the post, Wyatt.
October 14th, 2009 at 5:38 pm
Bill – The Father would receive it if he “thought” about saving lives. Heh.
Glenn – That would be terrific. It sure seems that Father Kapuan deserves it.
MUD – Very well said, Colonel!
MeToo – You’re welcome. Glad to get it out there.
October 14th, 2009 at 8:45 pm
This man should get the Medal Of Honor
October 15th, 2009 at 1:33 pm
Rick – Agreed. Definitely worthy of it.