Capt. Emil J. Kapaun, a U.S. Army chaplain killed during the Korean War, will be posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor next week by President Barack Obama for heroism displayed during combat.
The White House announced Thursday that Kapaun’s family will be in attendance for a White House ceremony set for Thursday, April 11th.
While under attack from Chinese Communist forces on Nov. 1-2, 1950, Kapaun braved enemy fire to provide medical aid and comfort to his fellow soldiers. Aware of his imminent capture, he also chose to stay behind to help treat his wounded servicemen. He also rescued an injured Chinese officer and worked with him to negotiate the safe surrender of American forces. Shortly following his capture, Kapaun confronted an enemy soldier preparing to execute a fellow American, saving his life and inspiring others to continue fighting the enemy.
The Metal of Honor is awarded to an armed forces member who serves in a distinguished manner while either engaged in an action against an American enemy or a foreign force or while serving with friendly foreign forces who are battling an opposing armed force.
To be eligible for the award, recipients must display personal bravery or self – sacrifice that clearly distinguishes them above fellow service personnel. In addition, the recipient’s conduct must be documented by incontestable proof and each recommendation must meet the standard of extraordinary merit.
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