The Medal of Honor

Our Nation’s Highest Award for Valor

On April 11, 2013, after 60 years of ceaseless advocating by his fellow soldiers and prisoners of war, Chaplain Emil Kapaun was awarded our nation’s highest award for valor for his actions at the Battle of Unsan, North Korea.

Learn more about the extraordinary nature of the award and the mission of mercy which led Chaplain Kapaun to be recognized with it.

The Medal of Honor

Our Nation’s Highest Award for Valor

On April 11, 2013, after 60 years of ceaseless advocating by his fellow soldiers and prisoners of war, Chaplain Emil Kapaun was awarded our nation’s highest award for valor for his actions at the Battle of Unsan, North Korea.

Learn more about the extraordinary nature of the award and the mission of mercy which led Chaplain Kapaun to be recognized with it.

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty…
Medal Criteria

A Most Prestigious Recognition

The Medal of Honor is one of the most prestigious and rare recognitions in the world, given for only the greatest acts of courage at the risk of one’s life while engaged in battle. Chaplain Emil Kapaun is one of 5 chaplains since the Civil War- all Catholic Priests- to be awarded the Medal of Honor.

Since it’s creation during the Civil War, the Medal has been awarded only 3,536 times. With more stringent criteria, only 1,243 people have received the Medal of Honor since the beginning of World War I. This is less than 0.01% of all American combat troops that have seen war in the 20th and 21st Century.

The award, along with the Legion of Merit and Bronze Star- not to mention the Korean equivalent of the Medal of Honor- make Father Kapaun one of the most decorated Chaplains in US history.

A Most Prestigious Recognition

The Medal of Honor is one of the most prestigious and rare recognitions in the world, given for only the greatest acts of courage at the risk of one’s life while engaged in battle. Chaplain Emil Kapaun is one of 5 chaplains since the Civil War- all Catholic Priests- to be awarded the Medal of Honor.

Since it’s creation during the Civil War, the Medal has been awarded only 3,535 times. With more stringent criteria, only 1,242 people have received the Medal of Honor since the beginning of World War I.

This is less than 0.01% of all American combat troops that have seen war in the 20th and 21st Century

The award, along with the Legion of Merit and Bronze Star- not to mention the Korean equivalent of the Medal of Honor- make Father Kapaun one of the most decorated Chaplains in US history.

Did You Know?
  • Father Kapaun’s Medal of Honor is on display at the Chaplain Kapaun Museum in Pilsen, Kansas, in the same rectory where he lived for several years of his priesthood.
  • Father Kapaun’s Medal has traveled with Ray Kapaun to visit many of Father Kapaun’s fellow POWs, the Army Chaplain Museum, and even South Korea for the awarding of the Taegeuk Order of Military Merit. Most recently it was on loan at the National Museum of the US Army in Virginia for about 9 months.
  • In 2021, the Army issued a second Medal of Honor to be buried with Father Kapaun.
  • A National Medal of Honor Museum is currently being built in Arlington, Texas. It is set to open in 2025. Likewise, a Memorial is being planned for the National Mall in Washington, DC. Learn More at www.mohmuseum.org
Chaplain Kapaun’s 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.

Request Citation Cards

Chaplain Kapaun’s Medal of Honor 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.

Core Values

The living recipients of the Medal of Honor have pinpointed the values that the Medal represents. The character of our nation is built on these values, and therefore they are reflected in the actions for which the Medal is given.

Not only that, these values reflect the underpinnings of Christian Virtue that help individuals and societies flourish. May Father Kapaun help train us to live these values, not only for our country, but for our Lord!

Courage

Courage is not the absence of fear, but the strength to face it and overcome difficulties to doing good.

Sacrifice

Sacrifice is putting the needs of others before that of one’s own.

Patriotism

Patriotism is devoted loyalty and support for one’s nation. We owe a unique loyalty to the country we call home while also seeking the good of the universal family of humanity.

Citizenship

Citizenship is assuming personal responsibility in one’s community. It means seeking to build it up rather than drawing on its resources without contributing to it’s excellence.

Integrity

Integrity is practicing honesty, honor and ethical behavior at all times- even when no one is watching.

Commitment

Commitment is following through on promises and obligations.

Core Values

The living recipients of the Medal of Honor have pinpointed the values that the Medal represents. The character of our nation is built on these values, and therefore they are reflected in the actions for which the Medal is given.

Not only that, these values reflect the underpinnings of Christian Virtue that help individuals and societies flourish. May Father Kapaun help train us to live these values, not only for our country, but for our Lord!

Courage

Courage is not the absence of fear, but the strength to face it and overcome difficulties to doing good.

Sacrifice

Sacrifice is putting the needs of others before that of one’s own.

Patriotism

Patriotism is devoted loyalty and support for one’s nation. We owe a unique loyalty to the country we call home while also seeking the good of the universal family of humanity.

Citizenship

Citizenship is assuming personal responsibility in one’s community. It means seeking to build it up rather than drawing on its resources without contributing to it’s excellence.

Integrity

Integrity is practicing honesty, honor and ethical behavior at all times- even when no one is watching.

Commitment

Commitment is following through on promises and obligations.

When the chips were down, Father proved himself to be the greatest example of manhood I’ve ever seen in my life.
Captain Robert Burke

Symbolism of the Medal

Each branch of the Armed Forces has its own unique medal, rich in symbolism.

The original medals were made of copper and coated with bronze.
Current medals are made of a gold-plated copper alloy.

Father Kapaun was awarded the Army version of the Medal of Honor.

Symbolism of the Medal

Each branch of the Armed Forces has its own unique medal, rich in symbolism.

The original medals were made of copper and coated with bronze.
Current medals are made of a gold-plated copper alloy.

Father Kapaun was awarded the Army version of the Medal of Honor.

Taegeuk Order of Military Merit

South Korea’s Highest Award

In addition to receiving the Medal of Honor, Father Kapaun has also been awarded the Republic of Korea’s highest military recognition for valor in 2021.

The Taegeuk Order of Military Merit is a recognition given to few Americans. President Moon Jae-in of South Korea awarded the medal to Father Kapaun’s nephew Ray. When bestowing the medal, President Moon referenced Father Kapaun’s dedication to peace and freedom through humility and love.

Among the Americans who have received the award are General Douglas MacArthur, who oversaw the defense of South Korea and the Incheon Landing to turn the initial tide of the war, and General Homer Litzenberg, who commanded the 7th Marine Regiment at the Battles of Incheon and the Chosin Reservoir.

The Kapaun family has chosen to loan the Taegeuk Medal to various museums to help share Father Kapaun’s story.

Medal of Honor Ceremony

April 11, 2013

Watch the presentation of Father Kapaun’s Medal of Honor to his nephew Ray Kapaun at the White House.  Several of Father Kapaun’s fellow Prisoners of War were in attendance for the momentous occasion.