Vincent R. Capodanno

Vincent R. Capodanno
Era Vietnam War
Branch U.S. Navy
Rank Lieutenant
Wall DD
Wall Side 1
Row 5
Plaque Number 25

Chaplin Capodanno was assigned to the United States Marine Corps, KILO Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines and died in Vietnam in the 1966 to 1970 era.

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as Chaplain of the 3rd Battalion, in connection with operations against enemy forces. In response to reports that the 2nd Platoon of M Company was in danger of being overrun by a massed enemy assaulting force, Lieutenant Capodanno left the relative safety of the company command post and ran through an open area raked with fire, directly to the beleaguered platoon. Disregarding the intense enemy small arms, automatic weapons, and mortar fire, he moved about the battlefield administering last rites to the dying and giving medical aid to the wounded. When an exploding mortar round inflicted painful multiple wounds to his arms and legs, and severed a portion of his right hand, he steadfastly refused all medical aid. Instead, he directed the corpsmen to help their wounded comrades, and with calm vigor, continued to move about the battlefield as he provided encouragement by voice and example to the valiant Marines. Upon encountering a wounded corpsman in the direct line of fire of an enemy machine gunner positioned approximately 15 yards away, Lieutenant Capodanno rushed in a daring attempt to aid and assist the mortally wounded corpsman. At that instant, only inches from his goal, he was struck down by a burst of machine gun fire. By his heroic conduct on the battlefield and his inspiring example, Lieutenant Capodanno upheld the finest traditions of the U. S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the cause of freedom.

Father Capodanno, the "Grunt Padre", was the subject of three documentaries: "Called and Chosen" (2017), "Armed With Faith": The Life of Father Vincent R. Capodanno, MM", and "The Field Afar: The Life of Father Vincent Capodanno" (2019).

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