Major James Capers Jr., a retired Marine Corps officer, received the Medal of Honor from President Donald Trump nearly six decades after leading his unit through a difficult ambush in Vietnam. Recognized as a pioneering figure in Marine Corps Special Operations, Capers dedicated the medal to the young men who sacrificed their lives for the United States.
During the ceremony held in the East Room of the White House on June 18, 2026, Trump presented the nation’s highest military decoration to three veterans. Alongside Capers, retired Army Maj. Nicholas Dockery was honored, and the award was presented posthumously to Marine Col. John W. Ripley, who passed away in 2008.
In 1967, Capers displayed immense bravery in Vietnam. Despite being severely injured, he led his men through the ambush, ensuring their safety until medical evacuation could arrive. Capers attributed his actions to the strong bond with his fellow Marines and his commitment to their well-being.
Capers holds the distinction of being the first African American to lead a Marine reconnaissance company and receive a battlefield commission. Although honored, he expressed a sense of survivor’s guilt amidst the praise.
It was a difficult time for me because I felt a little guilty because I didn’t feel like I deserved it. But all of the men and women that served, and I get to do something like this, it’s a wonderful day, and I’m honored,Capers said.
He acknowledged the personal toll that his service and accompanying losses had taken on him throughout his life.
Despite these challenges, Capers remains grateful to the military community for their support. During the White House ceremony, President Trump expressed gratitude to the veterans, stating, “We will never, ever forget you.”
Capers’ story of heroism is featured in “The Iron Major: James Capers Jr.,” currently available on Fox Nation. He was also recognized at the Fox Nation Patriot Awards in 2025 with the “Salute to Service Award.”