Hero priest: 5 things to know about Chaplain Emil Kapaun
Chaplain Emil Kapaun is a name that continues to inspire generations of Americans—military and civilian alike. A humble Catholic priest from Kansas, he served bravely during the Korean War and became known not just for his faith but for his courage, compassion, and ultimate sacrifice. In 2013, he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, and in 1993, the Vatican declared him a Servant of God, the first step on the path to sainthood.
Here are five things to know about this remarkable American hero priest:
1. He Was a Farm Boy Turned Faithful Servant. Born on April 20, 1916, in Pilsen, Kansas, Emil Kapaun grew up in a devout Czech Catholic farming family. From a young age, he felt called to the priesthood and was ordained in 1940. His simple beginnings and strong work ethic stayed with him throughout his life and service, endearing him to fellow soldiers who saw him as “one of them.”
2. He Volunteered to Serve as a U.S. Army Chaplain—Twice. Kapaun joined the U.S. Army Chaplain Corps in 1944, serving in World War II in Burma and India. After a brief return to Kansas, he re-enlisted in 1948, feeling drawn to minister to soldiers once again. His second tour of duty led him to the front lines of the Korean War, where he became known for running toward danger to tend to wounded troops, often under heavy fire.
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3. He Became a Hero in a Prisoner of War Camp. In November 1950, Kapaun was captured by Chinese forces during the Battle of Unsan and held in a North Korean POW camp. Despite brutal conditions, he risked his life daily to steal food for starving prisoners, tend to the sick, and offer spiritual support. Fellow prisoners said he kept morale high, conducted secret prayers, and even gave away his own clothing to others in need.
4. He Died a Martyr’s Death. Chaplain Kapaun died in captivity on May 23, 1951, after being denied medical care for pneumonia and blood clots. Eyewitnesses recall that even in his final moments, he forgave his captors and comforted fellow prisoners. His final words, reportedly, were a prayer of peace and hope. Many believe he died a martyr, and his legacy lives on through those he ministered to.
5. He’s on the Path to Sainthood. In 1993, the Catholic Church opened his cause for canonization, giving him the title “Servant of God.” In 2021, Pope Francis declared him “Venerable,” recognizing his heroic virtue. The Church is currently investigating miracles attributed to his intercession, which could lead to beatification—the next step toward sainthood.
Chaplain Emil Kapaun’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact one person’s faith and selflessness can have, even in the darkest of times. Whether you’re drawn to his spiritual example or his military courage, his legacy continues to bridge divides and inspire people of all backgrounds.
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