Veterans and Lawmakers Urge Trump to Honor Marine Corps Legend
A coalition of veterans and U.S. lawmakers is seeking to rectify a significant oversight by urging President Donald Trump to award the Medal of Honor to Major James Capers, an 87-year-old Marine Corps veteran famed for his bravery during the Vietnam War. This appeal comes in light of a previous neglect related to the recognition of his valor under the Biden administration.
A Hero’s Sacrifice in Vietnam
Maj. Capers displayed extraordinary heroism during a dangerous engagement in 1967 when his reconnaissance unit was ambushed by North Vietnamese forces in Phú Lộc. Accounts from surviving Marines depict a harrowing encounter where their unit, greatly outnumbered, faced heavy casualties due to an onslaught of claymore mines and enemy fire.
Despite sustaining severe injuries—including a ripped-open stomach and a broken leg—then-Lieutenant Capers exhibited commendable leadership. He managed to maintain control over his Marines, orchestrating effective defensive actions until the medevac helicopters could arrive. In a moment of profound selflessness, he even attempted to jump from the helicopter to ensure the safe extraction of his men. Thankfully, he was persuaded back on board by the medevac crew chief.
The Aftermath of Bravery
Capers survived the ambush, but not without enduring ongoing physical and emotional challenges. He was credited with 19 pieces of shrapnel embedded in his body and multiple gunshot wounds, wounds that still affect him to this day. For his gallant actions, he initially received the Bronze Star, which was subsequently upgraded to the Silver Star. However, many veterans believe his courageous actions warrant the Medal of Honor, the highest military decoration in the United States.
A Lifelong Commitment to Service
After the war, instead of seeking recognition for himself, Capers continued to serve in the Marines and became a vital part of the “Ask a Marine” program, which enabled him to share his experiences and inspire countless young individuals to honorably serve their country. Despite his lasting contributions and a significant legacy, Capers has remained unacknowledged by the Biden administration, provoking frustrations among fellow veterans.
His unique background as the first African American to serve in a reconnaissance battalion in Vietnam adds another layer to his story. The ongoing call for his recognition is not merely about the medal—it’s about honoring the legacy and sacrifices of a Marine whose contributions went beyond the battlefield.
The Push for Recognition Grows
The campaign to honor Capers with the Medal of Honor has gained broader support, particularly as many fear that with his advanced age and health issues, he may never receive the recognition he deserves. Recent developments show renewed strength in this endeavor as Bill Cortese, a Marine Corps veteran and supporter of Capers, expresses optimism that a change in leadership could lead to the long-awaited acknowledgment.
Cortese points out that during combat, soldiers do not see themselves as Democrats or Republicans; they stand as a unified front for their country. “Maj. Capers represents that unity,” he insists, underscoring how Capers transcends racial barriers. “He grew up in the Jim Crow South, overcame immense obstacles, and earned respect purely based on merit.” Cortese believes that Capers could be a unifying figure for a divided nation.
Criticism of Previous Administrations
Cortese has voiced his disbelief over the lack of movement from the previous administration regarding Capers’ well-deserved upgrade to the Medal of Honor. “It’s strange, but it seems we received every excuse under the sun,” he stated, indicating a suspicion that political narratives may have influenced the decision. He articulated frustrations with how current political dynamics may obscure individual merit and heroism, particularly regarding a figure like Capers, who does not align neatly within conventional political narratives.
Despite these hurdles, Cortese remains hopeful. “This administration knows how to do the right thing regarding veterans’ support,” he states confidently, acknowledging Trump’s sensitivity to the needs of veterans and their stories. “We believe he recognizes the significance of honoring someone like Maj. Capers—both for the veteran community and the country at large.”
A Formal Appeal from Congress
The movement seeking recognition went into overdrive when 47 members of the U.S. House and Senate signed a formal letter requesting that President Trump honor Capers appropriately. In their letter, they declared, “We firmly believe that Major James Capers, Jr., has met the stringent criteria for the Medal of Honor. His selfless actions, leadership, courage, and initiative uphold the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces.” They emphasized that Capers’ exemplary valor during critical missions offers an inspirational narrative worthy of the nation’s highest honor.
Honoring a Legacy of Service
Cortese expresses gratitude for the support from lawmakers, confidently stating, “We stand on the shoulders of people like Maj. Capers.” He emphasizes the importance of recognizing those who have paved the way for future generations of servicemen and women. “As a Marine Corps veteran myself, it is vital to remember and honor our traditions.” He concludes with a call to action, asserting that recognizing Maj. Capers is not only about honoring a dedicated service member but also about preserving the values and history that define the Marine Corps legacy.
It is imperative that the nation recognizes its heroes, ensuring that their sacrifices, like those of Maj. James Capers, do not fade into obscurity but, instead, inspire generations to follow.
