Honoring a Kansas war hero: State Capitol memorial for Father Emil Kapaun
A bill authorizing a permanent memorial in the Kansas Statehouse for Emil Joseph Kapaun, a Kansas-native war hero and Catholic priest who died in the Korean War, was signed into law Friday by Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly.
Kapaun, who served as an Army chaplain in World War II and Korea, received the U.S. Armed Forces’ highest military honor, the Medal of Honor, in 2013 — 62 years after his death in a prison camp in North Korea. He is also under consideration for designation by the Vatican as a Christian martyr. Many Catholics have advocated for his sainthood.
During the Korean War, Kapaun saved numerous lives and provided comfort and inspiration to his fellow soldiers as a prisoner of war. He is the most highly decorated chaplain in the history of the United States Army.
“Father Emil Kapaun was known for his selfless, dedicated service and providing care to all, regardless of their religion or beliefs,” Kelly said in a statement. “I am proud to honor his legacy and sacrifices for our country by signing this bipartisan bill.”
Kapaun’s remains were recovered in 2021 after a 70-year search.
Senators Chase Blasi, a Wichita Republican, Elaine Bowers, a Concordia Republican, and Richard Wilborn, a McPherson Republican, sponsored Senate Bill 431, which directs the capitol preservation committee to approve plans for a memorial honoring Kapaun in the state Capitol.
The bill also clears a path for the state to accept private grants, gifts, contributions or bequests made for the purpose of financing the memorial. The bill, passed unanimously in both chambers of the Legislature, prohibits use of public funds on creating or constructing the Kapaun memorial.
“Father Kapaun’s bravery and service is commendable,” Blasi said in a statement. “He worked tirelessly to care for many courageous Americans fighting for our freedom in both World War II and the Korean War. It’s an honor to recognize his commitment and valor with this memorial.”
Bowers, a member of the Capitol Preservation Committee, pledged to “see this memorial through the final stage of approval and permanent, prominent placement in the Statehouse.”