Sacrifice, Service, and Sanctity

The Journey of Navy Chaplain Father Vincent R. Capodanno”

Father Vincent Robert Capodanno (February 13, 1929 — September 4, 1967) was a Roman Catholic priest and Maryknoll Missioner (M.M.) who was killed in action while serving as a United States Navy Chaplain assigned to a Marine Corps infantry unit. This is the story of his upbringing in a large Italian family in Staten Island, New York, his life as a Maryknoll Missioner in Taiwan, and a Navy Chaplain during the Vietnam War.

FATHER VINCENT R. CAPODANNO, NAVY CHAPLAIN

Vincent R. Capodanno, a name that rings with bravery and sacrifice, has now become an inspiration not only for adults but also for young hearts through the captivating children’s book, “Father Vincent R. Capodanno Navy Chaplain” by Marianna Randazzo.

In the pages of this book, a world unfolds, chronicling the life of a true American hero in a way that even young readers can grasp. The vivid illustrations by William Castello transport children to the battlegrounds of Vietnam, where Father Capodanno’s unwavering courage shone brightly. They’ll witness the fierce firefight, where the outnumbered Americans fought valiantly, and Father Capodanno, undeterred by the chaos, stood by their side.

As the story unfolds, readers will meet a priest who was not confined to a church but chose to be amidst the soldiers, sharing their hardships and laughter. The book captures Father Capodanno’s determination to live, eat, and sleep alongside the “grunts,” his affectionate nickname for the enlisted men. Through Marianna Randazo’s words, young readers will come to understand the meaning of camaraderie and the essence of sacrifice.

The heart of the tale lies in Father Capodanno’s ultimate act of bravery. As bullets rained down, he shielded a young Marine, a real-life superhero protecting his comrade. The poignant moment is beautifully depicted, showing children that even in the face of danger, kindness and selflessness prevail.

This photograph was taken early during Father Capodanno’s studies to become a priest. When asked on his application to the Maryknoll seminary “What is your idea of life and work of a foreign missioner?” he indicated readiness to accept the challenge. He responded, “Any personal sacrifice I may have to make will be compensated for by the fact that I am serving God.”

But the story doesn’t end there. The book takes young readers on a journey of remembrance, highlighting the awards Father Capodanno received, including the prestigious Medal of Honor. They’ll see his name engraved on the Vietnam War Memorial at Fordham University Church, forever etched in history.

U.S. Marines carry their dead and wounded to a waiting helicopter near the western edge of the demilitarized zone in South Vietnam on June 21, 1968

Through “Father Vincent R. Capodanno Navy Chaplain,” Marianna Randazo ensures that the legacy of this remarkable man lives on, not just as a distant memory but as a living testament to courage, compassion, and the power of unwavering faith. This book invites young minds to discover a true American hero whose spirit continues to inspire generations.