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Retired colonel presents painting to Pilsen church

At the second annual Father Kapaun Day held Sunday at St. John Nepomucene Church in Pilsen, James F. Bell, a retired colonel, presented a painting of Chaplain Kapaun and medic Jerome A. Dolan helping a fatigued soldier away from battle for a much-needed rest.

The painting was created from a snapshot taken in November 1950, during an overwhelming assault on American troops by the North Koreans. Bell named the painting, "Battlefield Saint."

Bell became an artist after retiring from active duty in the Army Reserves. He specializes in paintings depicting war scenes from America's past.

Two wood carvings by Jerry Nowak of Wichita also were presented. One is a hand-carved replica of the crucifix carved by Major Gerald Fink while in a North Korean POW camp. The other features silhouettes of Christ and Father Kapaun and depicts the burdens they carried.

Approximately 500 people attended Sunday's festivities.

As the congregation sang, "God Bless America," the original crucifix was escorted into the church by members of the Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus and placed on display at the front of the church.

It was the 50th anniversary of the presentation of the crucifix to the church by four members of the military. The crucifix now is kept at Kapaun Mount Carmel High School in Wichita.

Fathers John Hotze, Paul Oborny, John Jirak, Jim Welden, and Steve Gronert participated in the Mass.

The Alex Stuchlik Polka Band, the church choir, and soloists Mary Griffith and Jeff Bina provided special music. Steve Jirak performed a musical score he wrote in honor of Father Kapaun.

Scripture readings were offered by Martin Kroupa and Kathleen Oborny.

A group of children presented canned goods, blankets, and other items reflecting the acts of mercy Father Kapaun carried out on the battlefield and in prison camp. The food items will be donated to the Lord's Diner in Wichita, and the remainder will be donated to the church.

The program following Mass was led by John F. Reznicek.

Herbert Miller, the injured soldier depicted with Chaplain Kapaun in a statue which stands on the church grounds, was present and expressed gratitude for the selfless action of Father Kapaun, an action which saved his life.

Brian Bina read a poem written by Harriet Bina in honor of Father Kapaun.

The program closed with the singing of the hymn, "America the Beautiful."

Afterward, the congregation enjoyed a supper provided by the members of St. Anne's Altar Society.

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