FORT HOOD (Now designated Fort Cavazos), Texas — More than 200 First Team and Fort Hood (Now designated Fort Cavazos) troopers have signed up to compete in an 18.6 mile ruck march on Nov. 2 here that memorializes Chaplain (Capt.) Emil Kapaun, the only Army chaplain to receive the Medal of Honor during the Korean War.
Kapaun was assigned to Headquarters Company, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division when he was captured by Chinese forces on Nov. 2, 1950 during the Battle of Unsan. While his unit was surrounded by enemy forces, he refused to escape, choosing instead to render aid to his fellow Soldiers while under enemy fire. After his capture, he and his fellow Soldiers were marched 87 miles to a North Korean prisoner of war camp. During his capture, Kapaun repeatedly risked his life by caring for his comrades, by sneaking them food and offering words of encouragement. He resisted a re-education program and openly flouted his captors by conducting a sunrise service on Easter morning, 1951.
Kapaun died in captivity on May 23, 1951.
This event is also a satellite march for the Norwegian Foot March Skill insignia. Participants meeting designated standards will be awarded the Norwegian Foot March Skill insignia in accordance with AR 600-8-22.
This 3rd annual event will begin Friday morning, Nov. 2 at 6 a.m. with the first competitors expected to finish at approximately 9 a.m.
Media are invited to attend this event.
Attending media should RSVP with Sgt. 1st Class Michael Garrett via email at michael.b.garrett16.mil@mail.mil.
Media wishing to cover this event should meet their escort at the Fort Hood (Now designated Fort Cavazos) Visitors Center in the media parking area on Nov. 2 no later than 8 a.m.
Interviews with the event organizer and participants will be available.
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NOTE: More information about Chaplain Kapaun and his heroic actions is available at the link below:
