Mike & H&S Companies 

Third Battalion, Fifth Marines

Veterans of the Vietnam War

Graphic, Copyright 1999 by Victor Vilionis...with thanks!

CAPODANNO, VINCENT R. - Lt, USN, Chaplain Corps, 3d Btln, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein), FMF. Action: Quang Tin Province, Republic of Vietnam, 4 Sep 1967. Inducted: Staten Island, N.Y. DOB 13 Feb 1929, Staten Island, N.Y. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as Chaplain of the 3d Btln, in connection with operations against enemy forces. In response to reports that the 2d Platoon of M Co was in danger of being overrun by a massed enemy assaulting force, Lt. 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, Lt. Capodanno rushed 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 machinegun fire. By his heroic conduct on the battlefield, and his inspiring example, Lt. Capodanno upheld the finest traditions of the US Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the cause of freedom.

For a remembrance of Father Capodanno by Ray Harton please click here.