[This article was submitted by Stella Naulo]
The members of the Chaplain Corps have been caring for all the members of the Army Family since July 29, 1775. The Corps was composed of only chaplains when it was founded, but 250 years later, it is now a fully integrated team of religious and spiritual support professionals, including chaplains, religious affairs specialists, directors of religious education, and other Army personnel. That dedicated team is supported by Chaplain Corps Family members, countless volunteers, and other partners. This article is one in a series highlighting historic and active members’ profiles of the U.S. Army Chaplain Corps since 1775.
Chaplain Emil Kapaun
Chaplain (Capt.) Emil Kapaun was a Catholic priest and U.S. Army chaplain known for his deep faith and selfless service, particularly during the Korean War. Born in 1916 in Pilsen, Kansas, he was ordained in 1940 and later joined the military as a chaplain. After serving in World War II, he returned to active duty in 1948. In Korea, he courageously ministered to Soldiers on the front lines, offering prayers, encouragement, and physical aid. During the Battle of Unsan in November 1950, he refused to abandon the wounded, staying with them even as his unit was overrun and captured. His bravery and compassion in the face of overwhelming danger earned him the Medal of Honor posthumously in 2013.
While imprisoned in a North Korean camp, Kapaun continued to serve his fellow Soldiers despite brutal conditions. He risked punishment to steal food for starving prisoners, tended to the sick and wounded, and kept morale high with his prayers and words of encouragement. Even as his own health deteriorated, he remained devoted to others, refusing to give up hope. Eventually, weakened by disease and malnutrition, he was taken away to a makeshift hospital, where he died in May 1951. His legacy as a servant leader and source of hope lives on, and in 2025, the Vatican declared him Venerable, recognizing his virtuous life and potential path to sainthood.
Chaplain Allen Allensworth
Chaplain Allen Allensworth was a distinguished U.S. Army chaplain, educator, and community leader who dedicated his life to service and empowerment. Born in 1842, he joined the Navy during the Civil War and later pursued theological studies, becoming a Baptist minister. In 1886, he was commissioned as a chaplain in the U.S. Army, where he provided spiritual guidance, education, and advocacy for Soldiers. Serving at various frontier posts, he worked tirelessly to improve the welfare of troops, emphasizing moral and intellectual development. His commitment to service and leadership earned him the rank of lieutenant colonel upon his retirement in 1906.
Following his military career, Allensworth focused on fostering opportunities for others. He founded the town of Allensworth, California, in 1908, envisioning a self-sufficient community built on education, enterprise, and civic engagement. His efforts aimed to create a thriving environment where individuals could develop and prosper. Though the town faced challenges over time, its legacy remains a testament to his vision and leadership. His contributions to the military, education, and social advancement continue to be honored, reflecting his lifelong dedication to service and empowerment.
Director of Religious Education Frank Leon
Frank Leon is a dedicated leader in the U.S. Army Chaplain Corps with over two decades of experience fostering spiritual readiness among Soldiers, Families, and Army Civilians. As a director of religious education, he has built impactful faith-based programs that support the diverse spiritual needs of military communities. One of his most meaningful achievements came when he helped a Catholic-Jewish family navigate their child’s faith journey, embodying the Chaplain Corps’ mission of interfaith support and unity. Moments like these define his service—bringing people together and strengthening their spiritual resilience.
Frank’s commitment to spiritual readiness extends beyond traditional religious instruction. Recognizing a need for moral support, he established the Spiritual Resiliency Office at Garrison HQ, providing a space where Soldiers and Civilians find encouragement and community. His leadership also led to the development of Spirit Strong – Strong Children, a values-based program supporting children of deployed Soldiers. Looking ahead, Frank remains committed to mentoring chaplains, strengthening Army Families, and equipping the warfighter with a resilient faith, an “everyday armor” for both life’s challenges and the battlefield. Through collaboration and storytelling, he continues to shape the Chaplain Corps’ legacy of hope and service.
As we reflect on the rich history and growth of the Army Chaplain Corps, the commitment to providing spiritual care and support has remained unwavering. From its humble beginnings in 1775 to its current, dedicated team of professionals, the Corps continues to serve as a cornerstone of strength and resilience for the Army Family.
Today, as in the past, Army chaplains, directors of religious education, and religious affairs specialists stand ready to offer guidance, comfort, and hope to Soldiers and their Families, regardless of faith. Their work is not just about tending to the spiritual needs of individuals, but also about fostering unity, morale, and a sense of purpose within the ranks. The contributions of these spiritual leaders, their Families, volunteers, and partners are an enduring testament to the power of faith, service, and community.
Check out our previous article and stay tuned for more profiles in our series, as we continue to highlight the remarkable history and impact of the Army Chaplain Corps:
Caring for the Army Family, Issue 1: profiles of Army Chaplain Corps members since 1775
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