May 25, 2025

Memorial Day is our nation’s solemn reminder that freedom is never free. It is a moment for us to reflect on the noble sacrifices of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice in service in defense of our nation. Let us remember them with great devotion and honor this weekend. Let us pray for the happy repose of their souls, the consolation of their families, the protection of all our service men and women, and for true and lasting peace in our world.  Here is a story of one of those heroes. 

Vincent Robert Capodanno, born in 1929 on Staten Island, New York, was the tenth child of Italian immigrants. Through the example of his parents, he experienced the dignity of hard work, pride of family, strength of ethnic solidarity, and most especially, love of their Catholic faith.

World War II impacted Vincent personally, as three of his brothers were serving in the military. Vincent attended daily Mass during high school and college.  While on a spiritual retreat in 1949, he confided to a close friend that he felt called to be a missionary priest.  He entered the Maryknoll Fathers, was ordained a priest in 1958, and was assigned to Taiwan.  He administered the Sacraments, taught, and distributed food and medicine.  He was later transferred to Hong Kong.  There he discovered a call within a call and joined the U.S. Navy Chaplain Corps. 

During Holy Week of 1966, Father Capodanno reported to the 7th Marines in Vietnam. Father Capodanno was more than a priest ministering within the horrors of war.  He became a constant companion to the Marines. He lived among them and was known as the “Grunt Padre.” He established libraries and organized outreach programs for the local villagers. He spent hours reassuring the weary and disillusioned, consoling the grieving, hearing confessions, instructing converts, and distributing Saint Christopher medals.

During his second tour on September 4, 1967, with the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, Father Capodanno made the ultimate sacrifice. After hours of heavy fighting from a North Vietnamese ambush, Father Capodanno, himself seriously injured, ran to the assistance of a wounded Marine to provide spiritual and medical support.  Despite being unarmed, the enemy opened fire, and Father Capodanno, the victim of 27 bullet wounds, died faithfully performing his final act as a good and faithful servant of God. A Marine who served with Father Capodanno said he had a look of peace on his face when he died.

Let us remember in prayer and honor the memory of all who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.  

Love and prayers,

Father Neil Sullivan