World renowned artist Gregory Perillo painted this image of Staten Island native Father Vincent Capodanno about five years ago. It captures the last moments of the Navy Chaplain serving on the front lines during the Vietnam War.

"He gave last rites to 8 or 9 dying soldiers and taking a bullet for every one of them 'til he could not move anymore," said Perillo.

September 4th this year marks 50 years since the day Father Capodanno died. A local non-profit is looking to honor him by raising funds to make a $90,000 8-feet tall bronze statue in his likeness; a statue that Perillo is sculpting.

"We idolize him because he was one of the bravest heroes that ever existed," said Perillo.

"Leaning over a marine, giving the last rites, he received 27 bullets in his back," said Anthony Leto.

Anthony Leto who is affiliated with the Vietnam Veterans of America has close ties to the Capodanno family. So far they have raised $30,000 toward the goal they need through private donations and fundraising. Leto says the idea has been in the works for years and it's time the dream becomes a reality.

"He's a native Staten Islander and one because he's a priest that needs recognition," said Leto.

Father Capodanno's legacy is something that has been recognized on Staten Island. He has a road named after him, a plaque in his honor and a memorial chapel. But a statue of this magnitude has never been done before.

"It's got to be put out and it's got to be noted that Father Capodanno served for us, for the American public and died for us and I want to get it known," said Leto.

The nonprofit is raffling off one of Gregory Perillo's paintings valued at 20-thousand dollars. 

A private Catholic Church association is also in the process of getting Father Capodanno canonized which would officially declare him a saint. ​