The White House,
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release March 11, 2013
President Obama to Award Medal of HonorOn April 11, President Barack
Obama will award Chaplain (Captain) Emil J. Kapaun, U.S. Army, the Medal of Honor for conspicuous gallantry.
Chaplain Kapaun will receive the Medal of Honor posthumously for his extraordinary heroism while serving
with the 3d Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division during combat operations against an armed
enemy at Unsan, Korea and as a prisoner of war from November 1-2, 1950. When 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. When they found themselves surrounded by the enemy, the
able-bodied men were ordered to evacuate. Chaplain Kapaun, fully aware of his certain capture, elected to
stay behind with the wounded. As hand-to-hand combat ensued, he continued to make rounds. As enemy 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 bravely pushed aside an enemy soldier preparing to execute a comrade, thus saving a life and
inspiring all those present to remain and fight the enemy until captured. Chaplain Kapaun’s nephew, Ray
Kapaun, and family will join the President at the White House to commemorate his example of selfless service
and sacrifice.
Click HERE to view the Official US Army
Website Medal of Honor page for Fr Kapaun |