"When we think of military heroes, we usually think of soldiers like Audie Murphy or Marines like John Basilone and their steadfast valor while they shot at the enemy. We should honor men and women who fight like that ... someone needs to fight to defend our freedom. But don't forget the "non-combatants" like our chaplains who have gone into battle with our troops.
"For this Memorial Day, remember these chaplains who selflessly sacrificed their lives:" . . .
. . .
"On September 4, 1967, some 2,500 North Vietnamese troops attacked the Marines. When Lt. Capodanno heard that two platoons were in danger of being overrun, he left the relative safety of the command post and rushed to be with his Marines. While under heavy fire, he tirelessly carried wounded men to safety and gave them aid. He was hit by shrapnel from mortar fire that tore holes in his legs, arms, and shredded one of his hands.
"He refused medical aid, but continued gathering his Marines to safety. He spotted a critically wounded corpsman and two Marines lying on the ground. As he ran to help them, a burst of machine gun fire cut him down. For his conspicuous acts of gallantry above and beyond the call of duty, he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.
"Honor these men this Memorial Day, and others like them, who selflessly serve and give their lives for the cause of freedom."
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