Will Trump do this for veterans?
A coalition of veterans and lawmakers is calling on President Donald Trump to award the Medal of Honor to an 87-year-old Marine Corps hero, Major James Capers, after the previous administration failed to do so. A decorated war veteran, Capers is celebrated for his heroic actions during the Vietnam War, particularly in the 1967 battle at Phú Lộc. There, he saved the lives of seven Marines after his unit was ambushed by North Vietnamese troops. Despite severe injuries from shrapnel and blasts, Capers led his men with extraordinary courage, ensuring their survival under impossible conditions.
Capers, then a lieutenant, was severely wounded—his stomach was torn open, and his leg broken—but he refused to abandon his men. In a remarkable display of leadership, he stayed in control, directing a small group of Marines to hold the enemy at bay until a medevac could arrive. When the helicopter struggled to take off, Capers tried to sacrifice himself, urging the crew to leave him behind so others could escape. It was only through the quick actions of the medevac crew that Capers was pulled back aboard. Despite suffering gunshot wounds and 19 pieces of shrapnel, Capers’ selflessness allowed all of his Marines to survive the ordeal.
Though Capers was awarded a Bronze Star, which was later upgraded to the Silver Star, many believe his actions merit the Medal of Honor. Throughout his life, Capers has remained humble, focusing on inspiring future generations of Americans through programs like “Ask a Marine.” He also became the first African American to serve in a Vietnam reconnaissance battalion, overcoming racial adversity and blazing a trail for others to follow.
Despite these remarkable achievements, Capers’ long-standing efforts to receive the Medal of Honor were ignored by the Biden administration. His supporters, including Marine Corps veteran Bill Cortese, believe that Capers’ unwavering commitment to service and the country exemplifies the values we should all honor. Cortese explained that Capers’ life story—overcoming the racism of the Jim Crow South, his devotion to the Marine Corps, and his refusal to seek recognition based on race—makes him a symbol of unity. “When you’re overseas, when the bullets start flying, no one cares if you’re a Democrat or a Republican,” Cortese said, emphasizing Capers’ role as a leader who acted solely based on merit and selflessness.
Capers’ cause has now gained new momentum with the support of 47 members of Congress, who formally petitioned President Trump to grant him the Medal of Honor. The lawmakers argue that Capers’ bravery during his missions in Vietnam in 1967 exemplifies the highest standards of military service and is deserving of the nation’s highest military honor.
Cortese, who has tirelessly advocated for Capers, is optimistic that President Trump’s administration will correct this long-overdue oversight. He believes Trump, a staunch supporter of veterans, will recognize Capers’ extraordinary valor and legacy. “We know President Trump cares about our veterans, and he understands the importance of recognizing heroic actions,” Cortese said. “This is about doing the right thing for the country and for Major Capers, a Marine Corps legend.”
This effort not only highlights Capers’ heroism but also reflects the importance of honoring military veterans who have paved the way for future generations. As a Marine, Cortese stresses the significance of tradition and the responsibility to recognize those who have given so much in service to their country. By awarding Major James Capers the Medal of Honor, we would rightfully acknowledge the extraordinary courage of a true American hero.