Attention on deck!

[Subdeacon Joe]

Medal of Honor presented today.

 

http://www.army.mil/medalofhonor/kapaun

 

 

Citation:

 

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of
Congress, March 3, 1863, has awarded in the name of Congress the Medal
of Honor to


Chaplain (Captain) Emil J. Kapaun

United States Army

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty:


Chaplain Emil J. Kapaun distinguished himself by acts of gallantry and
intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the 3d
Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division during combat
operations against an armed enemy at Unsan, Korea, from November 1-2,
1950. On November 1, as Chinese Communist Forces viciously attacked
friendly elements, Chaplain Kapaun calmly walked through withering enemy
fire in order to provide comfort and medical aid to his comrades and
rescue friendly wounded from no-man's land. Though the Americans
successfully repelled the assault, they found themselves surrounded by
the enemy. Facing annihilation, the able-bodied men were ordered to
evacuate. However, Chaplain Kapaun, fully aware of his certain capture,
elected to stay behind with the wounded. After the enemy succeeded in
breaking through the defense in the early morning hours of November 2,
Chaplain Kapaun continually made rounds, as hand-to-hand combat ensued.
As Chinese Communist Forces approached the American position, Chaplain
Kapaun noticed an injured Chinese officer amongst the wounded and
convinced him to negotiate the safe surrender of the American Forces.
Shortly after his capture, Chaplain Kapaun, with complete disregard for
his personal safety and unwavering resolve, bravely pushed aside an
enemy soldier preparing to execute Sergeant First Class Herbert A.
Miller. Not only did Chaplain Kapaun's gallantry save the life of
Sergeant Miller, but also his unparalleled courage and leadership
inspired all those present, including those who might have otherwise
fled in panic, to remain and fight the enemy until captured. Chaplain
Kapaun's extraordinary heroism and selflessness, above and beyond the
call of duty, are in keeping with the highest traditions of military
service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 3d Battalion, 8th
Cavalry Regiment, the 1st Cavalry Division, and the United States Army.

 

 

 

It also looks like there is a petition to get him an even greater honor: http://www.frkapaun.org/

[Dusty Balz, SASS#46599]

:FlagAm:

 

Well Done Father

[Hardpan Curmudgeon SASS #8967]

Kind of sets a separate and unique standard for "Hero."

[Badger Mountain Charlie SASS #43172]

[Forty Rod SASS 3935]

Attaboy, Padre. God bless you, sir.

[Utah Bob #35998]

A Hell of a Heavenly man sez I.

[Bama Red]

Bravo Zulu, Padre!