The Department of Defense has recommended that a Kansas war hero be awarded the Medal of Honor.

Kansas congressional leaders announced Friday that Father Emil Kapaun will be recognized at a ceremony in April for his bravery during the Korean War.

Kapaun pulled wounded soldiers to safety and attended to their injuries during the battle of Unsan. He was taken prisoner along with other American soldiers and carried severely injured fellow soldiers on his back. He escaped prison camp to steal food from nearby farms, bringing food to starving soldiers. He cared for the sick, washed them and shared stories of faith.

Father Kapaun died at a North Korean prison camp after developing a blood clot and pneumonia in 1951.

Pat Robert, U.S. Senator, said the honor is long overdue.

“I have been especially moved by the many stories of those who served with him and witnessed his acts of extreme valor,” Roberts said. “These soldiers have been waiting for this award for a long time, and tonight we know that the Medal of Honor will be posthumously awarded to their friend and hero.”

Rep. Todd Tiahrt began the Medal of Honor campaign in 2000. But it was not until last year the Kansas congressional delegation offered legislation in both the House and the Senate to waive the time limitation and award the Medal of Honor. The legislation was included in the final Fiscal Year 2012 National Defense Authorization Act.

Local families have prayed to Father Kapaun for healing. The Vatican is considering whether he should be declared a saint.

Father Kapaun was from Pilsen.