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No Bullet Got Me Yet: Unveiling the Most Decorated Chaplain in US Military History
The incredible story of the most decorated chaplain in US military history and his path to sainthood in the Roman Catholic Church.
Father Emil Kapaun, a humble priest, went far beyond the call of duty during World War II and the Korean War. Often found with the combat medics on the front lines, unarmed, ministering to the wounded, and known for his intense devotion to the soldiers whom he called “my boys,” Kapaun became the most decorated chaplain in US military history, awarded a Medal of Honor, the Distinguished Service Cross and the Legion of Merit.
But Father Kapaun’s leadership, bravery and selflessness doesn’t end there. When the story of human history is over, evil, death, darkness—they don’t get the final word. It was Father Kapaun’s love for God that gave him the courage to lay down his life for his friends and for his country.
Writer John Stansifer has spent years interviewing veterans and ex-POWs. Coupled with other interviews or self-published war experiences, as well as material from the National Archives and rare access to thousands of unseen documents, No Bullet Got Me Yet unveils the compelling history of the life of Father Kapaun as related by his friends, family and fellow soldiers, as well as in his own words from the numerous letters he wrote from the 1930s all the way to the battlefields of the Korean War.
Father Emil Kapaun, a humble priest, went far beyond the call of duty during World War II and the Korean War. Often found with the combat medics on the front lines, unarmed, ministering to the wounded, and known for his intense devotion to the soldiers whom he called “my boys,” Kapaun became the most decorated chaplain in US military history, awarded a Medal of Honor, the Distinguished Service Cross and the Legion of Merit.
But Father Kapaun’s leadership, bravery and selflessness doesn’t end there. When the story of human history is over, evil, death, darkness—they don’t get the final word. It was Father Kapaun’s love for God that gave him the courage to lay down his life for his friends and for his country.
Writer John Stansifer has spent years interviewing veterans and ex-POWs. Coupled with other interviews or self-published war experiences, as well as material from the National Archives and rare access to thousands of unseen documents, No Bullet Got Me Yet unveils the compelling history of the life of Father Kapaun as related by his friends, family and fellow soldiers, as well as in his own words from the numerous letters he wrote from the 1930s all the way to the battlefields of the Korean War.
384 pages, Hardcover
Published March 12, 2024
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265 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
April 26, 2024
I first learned of Father Emil J. Kapaun while watching a documentary about Medal of Honor recipients some years ago. His sacrifices made as a chaplain with the Army Chaplain Corps during the Korean war in 1950-51 affected me greatly. Apart from his normal chaplain duties, he rescued wounded soldiers under fire and would negotiate with the enemy for the safety of the men. He would often stay behind to care for the wounded and to help identify and bury the dead (enemy dead, too).
In early November 1950 at the Battle of Unsan the Chinese People’s Volunteer Army captured the 3d Battalion of the 8th Cavalry Regiment and marched Father Kapaun and the men 140 km to a temporary prison camp at Sombakol. As a POW he continued to tend to the needs of the men as best as possible until the Lord took him home on May 23, 1951.
In Stansifer’s book I appreciated learning more about the Catholic faith and practices, especially during warfare. I found comfort and increased faith in God after reading this book.
I’m thrilled that Mr. Stansifer wrote No Bullet Got Me Yet. Father Kapaun’s life and legacy should never be forgotten. However, Stansifer pairs the narrative text with many excerpts of letters. It was confusing at times whose ‘voice’ I was reading but maybe that was just me. I found that reading some parts of the hardcover copy after listening to the whole audio book helpful.
I will follow the cause of beautification and canonization.
In early November 1950 at the Battle of Unsan the Chinese People’s Volunteer Army captured the 3d Battalion of the 8th Cavalry Regiment and marched Father Kapaun and the men 140 km to a temporary prison camp at Sombakol. As a POW he continued to tend to the needs of the men as best as possible until the Lord took him home on May 23, 1951.
In Stansifer’s book I appreciated learning more about the Catholic faith and practices, especially during warfare. I found comfort and increased faith in God after reading this book.
I’m thrilled that Mr. Stansifer wrote No Bullet Got Me Yet. Father Kapaun’s life and legacy should never be forgotten. However, Stansifer pairs the narrative text with many excerpts of letters. It was confusing at times whose ‘voice’ I was reading but maybe that was just me. I found that reading some parts of the hardcover copy after listening to the whole audio book helpful.
I will follow the cause of beautification and canonization.
January 6, 2024
It doesn't pay to be a saint. Well, not in this life at least.
The life of Father Emil Kapuan, Medal of Honor awardee, Roman Catholic priest, and maybe one day saint, is told by John Stansifer in his book, No Bullet Got Me Yet. There are a few things which are beyond debate even for the most cynical. Kapuan was a kind, caring man who would brave bullets for any of his men regardless of creed. He enjoyed being a servant in various ways and did so humbly and quietly. Stansifer goes through great pains to present Kapuan as someone who is admired for his selflessness and in this endeavor, he succeeds.
However, I had a very hard time enjoying this book because of how Stansifer chooses to tell it. The most glaring problem is an over-reliance on letters from various sources. Normally, a primary source is the perfect tool to tell a story. However, Stansifer often uses large excerpts from personal correspondence from different people. It ruins the flow of the story and while it certainly paints Kapuan in a good light, it takes away from the reader's understanding of the time and place these letters refer to. It also means Stansifer has to consistently tell the larger story around what is happening in very short spurts. Kapuan deserves the attention and intention of this book, but I don't think the storytelling choices were the best way to do it.
(This book was provided as an advance copy by Netgalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing.)
The life of Father Emil Kapuan, Medal of Honor awardee, Roman Catholic priest, and maybe one day saint, is told by John Stansifer in his book, No Bullet Got Me Yet. There are a few things which are beyond debate even for the most cynical. Kapuan was a kind, caring man who would brave bullets for any of his men regardless of creed. He enjoyed being a servant in various ways and did so humbly and quietly. Stansifer goes through great pains to present Kapuan as someone who is admired for his selflessness and in this endeavor, he succeeds.
However, I had a very hard time enjoying this book because of how Stansifer chooses to tell it. The most glaring problem is an over-reliance on letters from various sources. Normally, a primary source is the perfect tool to tell a story. However, Stansifer often uses large excerpts from personal correspondence from different people. It ruins the flow of the story and while it certainly paints Kapuan in a good light, it takes away from the reader's understanding of the time and place these letters refer to. It also means Stansifer has to consistently tell the larger story around what is happening in very short spurts. Kapuan deserves the attention and intention of this book, but I don't think the storytelling choices were the best way to do it.
(This book was provided as an advance copy by Netgalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing.)
July 17, 2024
Poorly written but rich in content.
My favorite part:
Archbishop Cushing instructed the Catholic priests headed to the Korean War: “Mass must be said within the sound of the cannon. From now on, our priests will have less freedom and more work and can no longer afford to be spiritual millionaires while our men are dying in Korea.”
These words could also apply to every Catholic who has the gift of faith but hoards it instead of sharing it.
Fr. Kapaun was a man’s man who became a manly hero.
My favorite part:
Archbishop Cushing instructed the Catholic priests headed to the Korean War: “Mass must be said within the sound of the cannon. From now on, our priests will have less freedom and more work and can no longer afford to be spiritual millionaires while our men are dying in Korea.”
These words could also apply to every Catholic who has the gift of faith but hoards it instead of sharing it.
Fr. Kapaun was a man’s man who became a manly hero.
October 25, 2025
My dad and uncles served in World War II, uncles Vietnam, and husband desert storm, so I had to read the book for those who served. I grew up watching war movies and westerns with my dad, which I still love to this day not typical for a girl. We loved the Duke.
I grew up in a military family and was instilled with those values. This really hit home for me. i really understand. The bond that the military has for each other is like no other it stands the test of time. It's a very strong, at times difficult and moving read.
Thank you for @johnstansifer @netgalley @HarlequinTradePublishing for allowing me to read this book.
I grew up in a military family and was instilled with those values. This really hit home for me. i really understand. The bond that the military has for each other is like no other it stands the test of time. It's a very strong, at times difficult and moving read.
Thank you for @johnstansifer @netgalley @HarlequinTradePublishing for allowing me to read this book.
March 16, 2025
Father Emil Kapaun first came to my attention from the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency’s podcast episodes on the identification and repatriation of his remains in 2020… I sought this book out immediately. Stansifer crafts a stirring biography of an incredible man that also offers so much in the way of Korean War history and study of military chaplaincy, a particular area of interest of mine.
It is hard to believe a man of unwavering devotion to both faith and country as Father Emil Kapaun could ever truly have existed… but account after account from those blessed to know him reveal that he was perhaps even more remarkable than we can comprehend. Fervently hoping Father Kapaun goes all the way in the canonization process. Few more deserving of “Saint” than him.
It is hard to believe a man of unwavering devotion to both faith and country as Father Emil Kapaun could ever truly have existed… but account after account from those blessed to know him reveal that he was perhaps even more remarkable than we can comprehend. Fervently hoping Father Kapaun goes all the way in the canonization process. Few more deserving of “Saint” than him.
May 20, 2024
I picked this book up primarily out of interest for a modern person from the same general part of the world and background as I am being considered for sainthood, and in that there is no doubt after reading this, that he will be named so one day. The acts of Father Kapaun were incredible in the face of such evil. I didn't expect to get such an education on the US involvement in the Korean War at the same time. Father's faith was beyond inspiring and I can only pray that someone like him is praying for me. I found the many parts difficult to read simply because of the atrocity of the war. I had to literally put the book down and read something else for a couple days because it hurt. I wish I had learned more of the war while my grandfather, who fought in it, was still alive as I think it would have helped me better understand the torment he lived with and the memories that influenced many of his decisions. I am not a huge fan of the format of the book but I don't think it took away from Father Kapaun's story. Highly recommend.
February 20, 2024
I have received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I will divide my review on two fronts: the story, and the writing.
On the story side, this was a very cool piece of history that I had never heard of. The Venerable (maybe future Saint) Father Kapaun was a hero, a manly figure of faith in a time when "meek" is often incorrectly perceived as "weak". Both strong physically (he carried/supported another man on a 30 mile death march!) and in his faith (famously unflappable in battle and in the camp), he was the example for excellence as a military chaplain. Unfortunately, the emphasis for everyone in this story seemed to be placed upon the Father's faith only as evidenced through his good works, and not upon God as the source of his faith. One wonders if the good Father would wholly approve of this.
On the writing side, I had difficulties with the storytelling method. While it is obviously a labor of love, and the author really knew his material, I had difficulty maintaining my focus to the storyline. While I LOVE the use of primary sources, and Mr. Stansifer has an excellent sourcelist, the PLACEMENT of those sources within the book really broke up the narrative. He would just quote multiple paragraphs of letters, then a few introductory sentences, then another letter. The balance of interest became outweighed by frustration as this went on. Contrasting the data-rich early years of this biography with the POW events (which had many eyewitness accounts but few letters) it is clear what was holding up the flow.
I did also notice a couple typographical errors (spelling mistakes, the like), but as this is an ARC I imagine that will be corrected before final printing.
All in all, this was an interesting piece of history that I would recommend to anyone interested in church history or the Korean War era.
Finally, something that frustrated me was the author's apparent endorsement of ecumenicalism, claiming a mass that Father Kapaun administered was "ecumenical" because it had witnesses of different denominations, religions, or even atheists. If it was the Roman Catholic mass, with no elements of those other religions, it was not ecumenical. It was a normal mass. One has to wonder what Father Kapaun would also think of that. He ministered to all, but he ministered according the the Catholic faith. He was not Father Mulcahy of M*A*S*H. (Then again, Father Mulcahy was a Jesuit, so what else would one expect).
FINAL final note, Father Kapaun wrote about the importance of the Latin Mass that he was able to administer to a Korean parish whose priests had been driven away by the communists. He rejoiced that the Catholic church was one, all over the world, united by the common mass. One, again, has to wonder what he would think of the push for Novus Ordo.
What an interesting book....
I will divide my review on two fronts: the story, and the writing.
On the story side, this was a very cool piece of history that I had never heard of. The Venerable (maybe future Saint) Father Kapaun was a hero, a manly figure of faith in a time when "meek" is often incorrectly perceived as "weak". Both strong physically (he carried/supported another man on a 30 mile death march!) and in his faith (famously unflappable in battle and in the camp), he was the example for excellence as a military chaplain. Unfortunately, the emphasis for everyone in this story seemed to be placed upon the Father's faith only as evidenced through his good works, and not upon God as the source of his faith. One wonders if the good Father would wholly approve of this.
On the writing side, I had difficulties with the storytelling method. While it is obviously a labor of love, and the author really knew his material, I had difficulty maintaining my focus to the storyline. While I LOVE the use of primary sources, and Mr. Stansifer has an excellent sourcelist, the PLACEMENT of those sources within the book really broke up the narrative. He would just quote multiple paragraphs of letters, then a few introductory sentences, then another letter. The balance of interest became outweighed by frustration as this went on. Contrasting the data-rich early years of this biography with the POW events (which had many eyewitness accounts but few letters) it is clear what was holding up the flow.
I did also notice a couple typographical errors (spelling mistakes, the like), but as this is an ARC I imagine that will be corrected before final printing.
All in all, this was an interesting piece of history that I would recommend to anyone interested in church history or the Korean War era.
Finally, something that frustrated me was the author's apparent endorsement of ecumenicalism, claiming a mass that Father Kapaun administered was "ecumenical" because it had witnesses of different denominations, religions, or even atheists. If it was the Roman Catholic mass, with no elements of those other religions, it was not ecumenical. It was a normal mass. One has to wonder what Father Kapaun would also think of that. He ministered to all, but he ministered according the the Catholic faith. He was not Father Mulcahy of M*A*S*H. (Then again, Father Mulcahy was a Jesuit, so what else would one expect).
FINAL final note, Father Kapaun wrote about the importance of the Latin Mass that he was able to administer to a Korean parish whose priests had been driven away by the communists. He rejoiced that the Catholic church was one, all over the world, united by the common mass. One, again, has to wonder what he would think of the push for Novus Ordo.
What an interesting book....
June 19, 2024
'The greatest example of manhood' - here is the incredible story of Fr. Kapaun, a man whose life and actions inspire on a deeply human level. This book chronicles the extraordinary life of this US Army chaplain whose unwavering faith and selflessness nursed men back to health despite the dire conditions. He made his comrades fight to stay alive, instilling in them a sense of purpose and the will to survive. He even changed the heart of some of his cruel captors who feared his goodness.
What sets Fr. Kapaun apart was his love for even his enemies, a trait that marked him as more saint than man. It's incredible how his love and kindness permeated the prison camp even after his death, resulting in a higher survival rate compared to other camps.
The Christian call can be challenging. We need inspiration and encouragement on a human level. Theological arguments are important for our faith, but sometimes we need to see those principals lived out. Seeing God's grace truly alive in a person, such as Fr Kapaun, is profoundly inspiring. I have no doubt after this book that he is destined to become a modern day saint.
The testimonies from men who owe their existence to Fr. Kapaun are powerful, showcasing a man who embodied what it means to live as God intended men to live. My only wish is that the author had worked them into his text rather than quoting from start to finish. This has led to a bit of repetition and makes listening to the audiobook a bit laborious at times. Nevertheless, this is a book, and most importantly a story, which deserves a wider audience.
What sets Fr. Kapaun apart was his love for even his enemies, a trait that marked him as more saint than man. It's incredible how his love and kindness permeated the prison camp even after his death, resulting in a higher survival rate compared to other camps.
The Christian call can be challenging. We need inspiration and encouragement on a human level. Theological arguments are important for our faith, but sometimes we need to see those principals lived out. Seeing God's grace truly alive in a person, such as Fr Kapaun, is profoundly inspiring. I have no doubt after this book that he is destined to become a modern day saint.
The testimonies from men who owe their existence to Fr. Kapaun are powerful, showcasing a man who embodied what it means to live as God intended men to live. My only wish is that the author had worked them into his text rather than quoting from start to finish. This has led to a bit of repetition and makes listening to the audiobook a bit laborious at times. Nevertheless, this is a book, and most importantly a story, which deserves a wider audience.
May 8, 2024
What Happened to that Pipe!!
An inspiring story about one of our greatest Chaplin Heroes!! This story is extremely well written, well researched,and totally engaging from the first page to the last!! I found myself cheering for Father Kapaun,and feeling empathy for the difficult path he had to endure with grace, always in grace, in his job assisting soldiers in the throes of war. He put them ahead of himself, and showed them compassion, and was always worried about his fellow "BOYS" in combat,and in the every day living of soldiers involved in war,and their hardships. He tried in every way , no matter their religious beliefs, or no beliefs to encourage the men to keep going, keep their heads up high. Don't give up. I learned a lot about the every day traumas,and joys in serving your country in military service. I enjoyed this book so much. I am thinking that a trip to Kansas is in order! Don't miss this one! Read it! Give a copy to any veterans that you know who served their country. They will enjoy it,and find Father Kapaun's story awe inspiring as well.
An inspiring story about one of our greatest Chaplin Heroes!! This story is extremely well written, well researched,and totally engaging from the first page to the last!! I found myself cheering for Father Kapaun,and feeling empathy for the difficult path he had to endure with grace, always in grace, in his job assisting soldiers in the throes of war. He put them ahead of himself, and showed them compassion, and was always worried about his fellow "BOYS" in combat,and in the every day living of soldiers involved in war,and their hardships. He tried in every way , no matter their religious beliefs, or no beliefs to encourage the men to keep going, keep their heads up high. Don't give up. I learned a lot about the every day traumas,and joys in serving your country in military service. I enjoyed this book so much. I am thinking that a trip to Kansas is in order! Don't miss this one! Read it! Give a copy to any veterans that you know who served their country. They will enjoy it,and find Father Kapaun's story awe inspiring as well.
May 4, 2024
The story of Father Emil Kapaun’s life is a wonderful example a godly man giving his life in service to God. Kapaun sacrificially gave himself in service to those around him and in devotion to God.
This book does a great job of recounting the important influences and incidents of Father Kapaun’s life. It includes the historical and cultural context of the events of Kapaun’s life alongside writings from Kapaun himself as well as first-hand testimony from those who knew and interacted with Kapaun. I also enjoyed the inclusion of the process of canonization of saints in the Catholic Church in the epilogue. While I may not agree with all of the points presented, I learned a lot about the process and the reasons behind sainthood. This is a five-star review because the story of Kapaun is so influential and awe-inspiring.
This book does a great job of recounting the important influences and incidents of Father Kapaun’s life. It includes the historical and cultural context of the events of Kapaun’s life alongside writings from Kapaun himself as well as first-hand testimony from those who knew and interacted with Kapaun. I also enjoyed the inclusion of the process of canonization of saints in the Catholic Church in the epilogue. While I may not agree with all of the points presented, I learned a lot about the process and the reasons behind sainthood. This is a five-star review because the story of Kapaun is so influential and awe-inspiring.
May 5, 2024
I live near Pilsen, KS, but have not had the opportunity to visit the church yet, and his pictures and other books of his life are in our church's (St. Mary) library in Newton, KS, however, I did view his tomb at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Wichita two weeks ago. I have heard of Fr. Kapaun, but until I read this book, I did not know his history nor his bravery. I was enthralled at his bravery as well as his continued closeness to God from his early childhood until the end when he knew that he was called to a higher place. He was an amazing man and hero to "his boys" as well as those of us that live today with his memory engraved into our hearts and soul. Thank you John Stansifer for your research in bringing his story to life.
March 25, 2024
Enthralling story of the life of Father Kapaun. So rare to find a war story about the rarely-talked-about Korean War.
December 14, 2024
Servant of God Fr. Emil J. Kapaun, pray for us.
October 3, 2024
I love a good war heroism story, and I really wasn't aware at all what level of involvement military chaplains were (/are?) permitted to have in ongoing wars. Emil Kapaun routinely drove onto active battle zones to serve communion off the hood of his Jeep, baptized next to foxholes, and prayed over the wounded and dying. Kapaun was known for administering medical aid and rescuing soldiers no one else could get to. He buried fellow soldiers and enemy soldiers alike, treating each with respect. As a prisoner of war, he faithfully held services, led songs, and continued to pray for and with other inmates as well as for his captors, all the while selflessly shouldering the duties of caring for inmates with dysentery and emptying latrines no one else wanted to touch. Stansifer includes an abundance of personal correspondence from Kapaun himself as well as from numerous others recounting his faithful humility, optimism, good humor, and servant-heartedness.
This book also represents Stansifer's attempt to get Kapaun canonized as a saint in the Catholic church, so his sycophantic language does go over the top at times, such as when he lauds a particular sermon as being "the best Easter sermon anyone had ever heard, perhaps in the history of the world." However, the first-hand witnesses and preponderance of testimonies about Kapaun reassure the reader that at least Stansifer is not alone in his high opinion of the man.
This book also represents Stansifer's attempt to get Kapaun canonized as a saint in the Catholic church, so his sycophantic language does go over the top at times, such as when he lauds a particular sermon as being "the best Easter sermon anyone had ever heard, perhaps in the history of the world." However, the first-hand witnesses and preponderance of testimonies about Kapaun reassure the reader that at least Stansifer is not alone in his high opinion of the man.
April 24, 2025
Father Kapaun, a catholic priest from Wichita KS, served in the Korean War. This book is enriched with such history. The beginning half felt as though I was walking through a museum reading captions. The second half felt as if I was with the characters of this book talking and reading letters. Very well written.
October 16, 2025
Very interesting
January 10, 2026
Rooting for sainthood. Kansas proud.
July 14, 2024
I really liked this story. The writing itself was mid. And the book was way too long.
May 3, 2024
We live in a nation divided by political shouting and vitriol. We experience a church struggling and disillusioned in the wake of scandal perpetrated by bishops and clergy. Here is a reminder of what can and should be: The life of a Catholic priest and American hero which sadly few have yet heard of. Here is a triumph of faith and service amid the stench of humankind's inhumanity to others and sometimes all. Father Emil Kapaun received the Medal of Honor posthumously and awarded to his nephew by President Obama in the East Room (great picture) in 2013. If the government moves slowly, the Vatican more so in the cause for this war hero's cause for Sainthood. Emil was born into a simple Kansas family in 1915 which raised a humble son in their Bohemian Catholic culture. Self effacing and one of the guys, certain character attributes are noted early on. Catholic seminary and ordination in the Latin Mass days followed and he might have become another parish priest in a church proud of their native son, loved by the kids. But a world at war beckoned, from World War II to Korea. Here, as an M.A. in education turned military chaplain, IN THE COLDEST WINTER, Fr. Kapaun's ordinary life of service is transformed in to the extraordinary. In steaming weather turned to frigid winters, from Catholic Mass celebrated on Jeep hoods to the last sacraments in fields of blood, Fr, Kapaun is transformed into a true reflection of the Jesus Christ he loved and served, in valuing and serving and saving others at risk to himself. As chaplain to POW he approaches the misery around him in a positivity and hope, which spreads to his fellow POWs starving and wounded. Father Kapaun transformed lives and existence, and his spirit encouraged and inspired others regardless of their faith. And in the artistry of one Jewish POW the image of the crucified Christ was made real. Father Emil sought to be one with Christ, in pain and suffering, and he realized that in courage and perseverance in faith. In these times of a church in scandal and struggle, and a country divided and vociferous in political vitriol, this story of a man who in the dreck of war and starvation saw a greater reality is needed and appreciated. A real priest. A real servant of God.
May 17, 2024
This was a very interesting and inspiring book Father Kapaun is the most decorated chaplain in the history of the United States. And Stansifer tells the wonderful story of Emil Kapaun's early childhood, call to the Priesthood, early days as a parish priest in Kansas, his call to service in WWII, and his sense of call to return to military chaplaincy in Korea where he would ultimately give his life.
As a retired clergy myself, I found myself greatly admiring Father Kapaun for his sense and dedication to the church, to share the love of Christ, and to his selfless sacrifice to serve in his capacity as priest to those in the military. This book has ample stories from those whom Kapaun ministered to - in the parish and the military - which reveal his true sense of loving and serving his flock. While it is all too easy to conflate God and country, especially in times of war, Kapaun seemed to have a genuine sense of call to care for those in military service as well as the realities of the horrors of war. As a Protestant, there were details about Catholic belief and practice that were uncomfortable; but Father Kapuan seemed to truly ministry to the needs of his soldiers, regardless of their religious tradition, including those who were not Christian.
Kapuan was intentionally killed by the Koreans who held him in captivity, as they feared the influence he had on the soliders. His body was in a unmarked grave for many years. But in post-war agreements for the exchange of bodies, Kapaun was, after much examination and study, discovered amidst bodies returned to the states. But that was not until 2019. He was given full military honors in Kansas. I was intrigued to learn about the process of canonization and the process toward Sainthood in the Roman Catholic church. Kapuan is early in that long process for consideration.
I don't know if I could have done the things Kapuan did. I could only hope that I could be as faithful in my call to ministry if his the same position. Kapuan touched the lives of thousands with love and hope and grace. This was a very wonderful story.
As a retired clergy myself, I found myself greatly admiring Father Kapaun for his sense and dedication to the church, to share the love of Christ, and to his selfless sacrifice to serve in his capacity as priest to those in the military. This book has ample stories from those whom Kapaun ministered to - in the parish and the military - which reveal his true sense of loving and serving his flock. While it is all too easy to conflate God and country, especially in times of war, Kapaun seemed to have a genuine sense of call to care for those in military service as well as the realities of the horrors of war. As a Protestant, there were details about Catholic belief and practice that were uncomfortable; but Father Kapuan seemed to truly ministry to the needs of his soldiers, regardless of their religious tradition, including those who were not Christian.
Kapuan was intentionally killed by the Koreans who held him in captivity, as they feared the influence he had on the soliders. His body was in a unmarked grave for many years. But in post-war agreements for the exchange of bodies, Kapaun was, after much examination and study, discovered amidst bodies returned to the states. But that was not until 2019. He was given full military honors in Kansas. I was intrigued to learn about the process of canonization and the process toward Sainthood in the Roman Catholic church. Kapuan is early in that long process for consideration.
I don't know if I could have done the things Kapuan did. I could only hope that I could be as faithful in my call to ministry if his the same position. Kapuan touched the lives of thousands with love and hope and grace. This was a very wonderful story.
February 28, 2024
I couldn’t put this book down and read it from cover to cover. I never expected to learn of a true man of God that I had never heard of until recently that endured such brutal suffering and witnessed so much violence and came out of it with an equally powerful message of faith, love and genuine forgiveness of his enemy. I knew nothing of the Korean War and found his journey deeply personal to me through the words of the many letters he wrote home from the battlefield. (Including the title) Everyone who reads this story will walk away better for it. Fr Kapaun’s story has been long overdue to reach a wider audience especially in these dangerous times where peace needs to prevail. People and followers of Fr Kapaun have said from the time they learned of his passing in 1953 that he should be awarded the Medal of Honor. It finally happened in 2013. Kapaun Mt Carmel High School in Wichita still strives to this day. But perhaps most important of all is that those same people have always thought of him as a Saint. This book reinvigorates the faith and knowledge that Sainthood is inevitable for this beautiful man — Emil Kapaun. This book was a privilege and honor to read and will be by side forever.
November 27, 2024
My eyes teared up when i finished this book. Even though i knew how it would end, that Capt (Father) Kapaun would die at the hands of the Chinese communists during the Korean war, I didnt want it to happen. This is a powerful life changing story of a young man from Pilsen Kansas, who became a priest, served as a chaplain in world War II, served again in Korea and was killed while a POW. The story is told largely through people who served alongside Father Kapaun including those with him during his captivity in North Korea. I must admit i did not know a lot about the Korean war, and was happy to learn more through this story. It's hard to imagine men and women who fought the Germans and the Japanese being called up again five years later. Such was the case for Emil Kapaun. How he ministered to his fellow man in brutal conditions , stayed behind with the wounded, and shone as a light in the dark days of captivity will forever be emblazoned in my mind. There is a memorial to him at a the Kapaun Mt Carmel high school in Wichita Kansas, with items from his life and times as a POW; I hope to visit there one day. If you want to read a book about a person whose faith served as an inspiration to others and still does, this is the book.
March 16, 2025
I am a huge fan of reading stories about individuals. People's history is one of my favorite things as a historian. In this story, No Bullet Got me Yet - we see the unwavering courage of Father Kapaun. Father Emil Kapaun, a humble priest, went far beyond the call of duty during World War II and the Korean War. He was found unarmed and on the front lines - he would be ministering to the wounded. Not only was he a chaplain, he also would rescue wounded soldiers, He also would negotiate with the enemy. I think the thing that moved me the most was the fact that he would stay behind after a battle and care for the wounded (both sides) along with helping to identify and bury the dead.
While I am a military historian, this is an individual that I am not familiar with. I loved reading the testimonies and getting to know Father Kapaun.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.
While I am a military historian, this is an individual that I am not familiar with. I loved reading the testimonies and getting to know Father Kapaun.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.
July 23, 2025
Reading about this tragic time in our world’s history and reflecting on hardships I hope never to endure is time well spent. I am confident Father Kapaun is enjoying his eternal home and rest with our Father. I am thankful for his inspirational faith and courage he displayed during his time here on earth. The fact that several accounts describe Father providing comedic relief and smiles throughout the war is a testament to his incredible faith in God and his understanding that the earth is our temporary home.
The Afterward of the book explaining the process of Canonization of Saints in the Catholic Church is one of the very best explanations of this process I have ever read.
5 stars for the story of Father Kapaun. I think that the organization of the source material could be improved. Choppy and repetitive at times. However, because of the incredible nature of Father Kapaun's story, it earns 5 stars from me. I loved learning more about this remarkable man and his faith!
The Afterward of the book explaining the process of Canonization of Saints in the Catholic Church is one of the very best explanations of this process I have ever read.
5 stars for the story of Father Kapaun. I think that the organization of the source material could be improved. Choppy and repetitive at times. However, because of the incredible nature of Father Kapaun's story, it earns 5 stars from me. I loved learning more about this remarkable man and his faith!
September 4, 2024
As the daughter of a POW in Camp 5 who did not survive, I found this book to be a comfort knowing he was being taken care of and prayed for by Father Kapaun. The conditions these men endured were horrific, but he selflessly continued to minister to them. Be it bringing scraps of food, or a sip of water or cleaning their bodies of the filth of that camp.
From very early on Father Kapaun knew his calling was to serve God and his Country. I feel proud to be able to say that my father personally knew and served with this holy man. His selfless sacrifices should be acknowledged by all and I sincerely hope he will be among those we call Saints.
Thank you for writing this book John
Gail Gouger
From very early on Father Kapaun knew his calling was to serve God and his Country. I feel proud to be able to say that my father personally knew and served with this holy man. His selfless sacrifices should be acknowledged by all and I sincerely hope he will be among those we call Saints.
Thank you for writing this book John
Gail Gouger
April 8, 2024
This is possibly the most inspiring book I have ever read. Although the writing is good (not great) the true story it tells is precious, poignant and powerful. Chaplain Emil Kapaun's faith, as testified by all who served with him, was at a level most of us could only dream of. While I am not a Catholic and have issues with some of the doctrine of Rome, there is no doubt this man loved God with all his heart. In the midst of the most terrible conditions, as a POW of the Chinese, he served and inspired others with a winsome faith that crossed all human boundaries. Every believer should read this story...but prepare to shed a few tears. Five stars because there aren't six!
dnf
March 18, 2024DNF.
Living in Kansas I remember this because it was everywhere and I admit I read about and it's an amazing story. As for the book it is to help push the church into turning the guy into an official saint in the church. I have no problem with that but since it is focused on that agenda that other things like historical accuracy is sometimes missing in areas. One of these mistakes just annoyed me so much I couldn't continue because I would be too focus on finding other inaccuracies throughout the book.
Living in Kansas I remember this because it was everywhere and I admit I read about and it's an amazing story. As for the book it is to help push the church into turning the guy into an official saint in the church. I have no problem with that but since it is focused on that agenda that other things like historical accuracy is sometimes missing in areas. One of these mistakes just annoyed me so much I couldn't continue because I would be too focus on finding other inaccuracies throughout the book.
March 26, 2024
Always been intrigued by the soul in extremis. And there's none more so than those taken captive by an enemy. No doubt Chaplin Kapaun showed courage and gave faith to his fellow soldiers during the Korean War. An admirable courage and faith, and I'm not the least religious, but he was a good man and is deserving sainthood if any be so. That said, kudos to John Stansifer for drawing Emil Kapaun from obscurity and giving him due presence on the American stage. No Bullet Got me Yet is a fine tribute to the humble farm boy from Kansas and all those tragic young lives he so faithfully tended...
July 25, 2024
An excellent story from a saintly man. Fr Kapaun has impacted thousands and thousands of lives. He lived selflessly and his memory still lives on.
John Stansifer does a great job bringing public history, letters from Fr Kapaun to friends and family, stories from soldiers who served with Fr Kapaun, and religious aspects together in a wonderfully woven story about the life of this important man. A must read for any Catholic, American, Christian, or individual looking to be inspired by the selfless life of a true Servant of God.
John Stansifer does a great job bringing public history, letters from Fr Kapaun to friends and family, stories from soldiers who served with Fr Kapaun, and religious aspects together in a wonderfully woven story about the life of this important man. A must read for any Catholic, American, Christian, or individual looking to be inspired by the selfless life of a true Servant of God.
August 11, 2024
This is the story of the miraculous life of Fr. Emil Kapaun a rial Kansas Priest. From his boyhood to being a parish Priest to his ultimate assignment as military chaplain where he devoted his service and life to bring Christ and his Church to the men under his command in both WWII and the Korean Wars and in doing so giving his life up for Christ. This simple Priest from Kansas Is now on the path to Saint Hood with the title of servant of God and waiting more confirmation of his road virtues in life from the Vatican after reading this story of Fr. Emil Kapaun I hope and pray that he will be a great role model for soldiers and civilians alike and that one day we may
St. Emil Kapaun-Pray for us.
St. Emil Kapaun-Pray for us.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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