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Father Vincent Capodanno: Navy Chaplain and Vietnam War Hero

Chinua Achebe

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Father Vincent Capodanno was a Catholic priest and Navy chaplain who served in the Vietnam War. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions in saving the lives of his fellow Marines.

Father Vincent R. Capodanno: Navy Chaplain

by Marianna Randazzo

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Capodanno was born in Staten Island, New York, in 1929. He attended St. Peter's College and Maryknoll Seminary, and was ordained a priest in 1958. He joined the Navy in 1965 and was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 9th Marines. In Vietnam, Capodanno served as a chaplain to the Marines, providing spiritual guidance and support. He also served as a medic, often putting himself in danger to help the wounded.

On September 4, 1967, Capodanno's unit was ambushed by a large force of North Vietnamese soldiers. Capodanno was wounded in the leg, but he refused to be evacuated. He stayed with his Marines, administering last rites to the dying and giving them spiritual comfort. Capodanno was killed by a mortar round while he was helping a wounded Marine.

Capodanno was awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously for his heroic actions. He was the first chaplain to receive the Medal of Honor since the Korean War. Capodanno's story is one of bravery, courage, and sacrifice. He was a true hero who served his country and fellow marines with distinction.

Early Life and Education

Vincent Capodanno was born on February 13, 1929, in Staten Island, New York. He was the son of Italian immigrants, and he grew up in a devout Catholic family. Capodanno attended St. Peter's College in Jersey City, New Jersey, and Maryknoll Seminary in Ossining, New York. He was ordained a priest in 1958.

After his ordination, Capodanno served as an assistant pastor at St. Patrick's Church in Staten Island. He also worked as a chaplain at St. Vincent's Hospital in Manhattan.

Service in the Navy

Capodanno joined the Navy in 1965. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 9th Marines, and he served as a chaplain to the Marines. Capodanno quickly gained the respect of the Marines he served with. He was known for his bravery, his compassion, and his sense of humor.

Capodanno served in Vietnam from 1966 to 1967. He saw combat on several occasions, and he was wounded in action twice. Despite the dangers he faced, Capodanno never wavered in his commitment to serving the Marines.

Heroic Actions and Medal of Honor

Capodanno was killed by a mortar round while he was helping a wounded Marine. He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions.

Legacy

Father Vincent Capodanno was a true hero. He served his country and his fellow Marines with distinction. His bravery, compassion, and sense of humor made him a beloved figure among the Marines he served with.

Capodanno's legacy continues to inspire people today. He is a reminder of the importance of service, sacrifice, and courage. His story is one that should be told and retold for generations to come.