Joseph Kapacziewski, also known as Joe Kap, was a remarkable soldier who served in the US Army for over 20 years with a prosthetic limb. He was an inspiration to many people, especially other wounded veterans, for his courage, resilience, and determination. He wrote two books about his life and his challenges, and he was involved in several organizations that supported veterans and adaptive sports. Unfortunately, he passed away on January 23rd, 2023, at the age of 40, due to complications related to COVID-19. In this article, we will explore his life, his achievements, and his cause of death.
Contents
Early Life and Military Career
Joe Kap was born on November 30, 1982, in Durham, Connecticut, to parents Stephen and Susan Kapacziewski. He had an older sister Erin and a younger brother Randy. He grew up on a small farm and attended Bristol Eastern High School, where he excelled in wrestling and football. He enlisted in the US Army in 2001, after graduating high school, and became a U.S. Army Ranger.
He served in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom as an infantryman assigned to B Company 1-25 Infantry Regiment (Stryker Brigade Combat Team). In 2005, he stepped on an improvised explosive device (IED) during combat operations that resulted in severe injuries to his left leg. He underwent several surgeries to save his leg, but eventually decided to amputate it from the thigh down in 2007. He became the first amputee in Army history to return to combat as a Ranger.
He continued to serve honorably until 2013, when he retired from active duty after completing 20 years of service. He received three medals of valor for his actions: two Purple Hearts and one Bronze Star Medal with Valor Device.
Post-Military Life and Accomplishments
After retiring from the military, Joe Kap dedicated himself to helping other wounded veterans by becoming an advocate for adaptive sports programs. He participated in various activities such as skiing, cycling, golfing, and shooting, regardless of his physical limitations. He also became involved with several organizations that provided support and assistance to veterans, such as:
- SoldierStrong: This organization provides advanced medical technology solutions to injured veterans, such as exoskeletons that help them walk again.
- American Trigger Pullers: This organization promotes veteran mental health and suicide prevention through peer support and counseling.
- Israel Del Toro Jr.: This is a fellow veteran who introduced Joe Kap to adaptive sports opportunities after surviving severe burns from an IED blast in Afghanistan.
- Warfighter Made: This organization creates custom recreational vehicle conversions for disabled veterans that allow them to enjoy off-road adventures.
Joe Kap also wrote two books about his experiences as a disabled veteran: “Warrior Code: My Journey Through Hell To Become A Better Man” and “The Warrior Code 2: Finding Strength & Purpose Through Adversity”. Both books were published posthumously shortly after his death. In these books, he shared his personal stories of overcoming adversity and finding meaning in life.
Cause of Death
Joe Kap passed away on January 23rd, 2023, at the age of 40, due to complications related to COVID-19 infection. He contracted the virus while serving as a volunteer firefighter in Coventry Fire Department located near Storrs Connecticut University campus where he worked since 2014 until present day. He was hospitalized for several days before succumbing to the disease.
His death shocked and saddened the community that knew him and admired him. His family, friends, fellow veterans, and fans expressed their condolences and tributes on social media and other platforms. His funeral service was held on February 4th, 2023, at Arlington National Cemetery where he was laid to rest with full military honors.
Conclusion
Joseph Kapacziewski was a heroic soldier who served his country with honor and courage. He was a role model for many people who faced challenges and difficulties in life. He was a loving husband to Kimberly Kapacziewski and a devoted father to their son Wyatt Kapacziewski. He was a generous and compassionate person who helped others in need. He was a warrior who never gave up on his dreams and goals. He was a legend who left a lasting legacy for generations to come.
He will be dearly missed by all who knew him and loved him.
Rest in peace, Joe Kap.
You are not forgotten.
