One usually thinks of soldiers exclusively when considering warfare. Only as a second thought are civillians, surgeons and chaplins given any attention. A Shepherd in Combat Boots will rectify that laxity in thinking. Father Emil Kapaun's story is one of compelling compassion for fellow human beings in the peculiar circumstances of combat and captivity. He was a man of action when the simplest of gestures counted. By his example soldiers learned the true meanings of love, sacrifice, duty and honor. No one can read this book without being touched and without asking "why have I never heard of this man before?"

"A Shepherd in Combat Boots" is the story of a remarkable soldier, priest and human being. In this day and age, where people loosely confer the title of "hero" on media stars and sports figures, it is inspiring to read the story of a true hero -- Father Emil Kapaun, a simple chaplain who gave unselfishly of himself and placed his own life in jeopardy to serve his fellow soldiers during the Korean War. As a member of the U.S. military reserve, I found the story a moving reminder of what it means to serve one's country and fellow man.

The extensive endnotes and bibliography indicate that the author has thoroughly researched his subject matter. Yet, while providing a great deal of information, the author has produced a story which is quite readable. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in learning more about the Korean War (as I did in reading it) or to anyone who is simply looking for an inspirational, true story.

Father Kapaun provided a tremendous example of courage to the young soldiers in his care during the most frightening and difficult circumstances. His story would send a positive message to any reader and might be particularly appreciated by young readers (teens and above), who may be trying to formulate their own answers to the question of what it really means to live one's life as a hero.

I am a teacher at a Catholic high school in Wichita, KS-- Kapaun Mt. Carmel. In 1955, Chaplain Kapaun Memorial High School opened its doors to Catholic young men of the Wichita Diocese. In 1972, CKM joined with Mt. Carmel Academy (girls) to form Kapaun Mt. Carmel Catholic High School. Throughout the year, we celebrate the life and extraordinary contribution of Fr. Emil Kapaun. The book does an incredible job of recounting the Korean experience of Fr. Kapaun. He is truly an inspriation to our student body and faculty, just as he becomes to all who read the book.