Veterans Push for Medal of Honor for Legendary Marine James Capers Jr.

After nearly six decades of waiting, retired Marine Maj. James Capers Jr. stands on the brink of recognition for his courageous leadership during a harrowing ambush in Vietnam, as he and his nine-man reconnaissance team faced overwhelming odds.

A group of 133 retired senior enlisted leaders has come together to send a letter to President Donald Trump, calling on him to encourage Congress to enact legislation that would eliminate the five-year limit for awarding the medal. 

A letter dated August 4, authored by retired Marine Sgt. Maj. Bryan Battaglia, expresses support for a bill put forth by Rep. Ralph Norman, R-S.C., which seeks to empower Trump to bestow the medal upon Capers.

In April 1967, 2nd Lt. Capers and his team found themselves under intense enemy fire, struggling to maintain their position. In a remarkable display of bravery, Capers, despite enduring two gunshot wounds and 17 shrapnel injuries, made the courageous decision to call in a mortar strike on his position. This strategic move was crucial in holding back the enemy. This allowed him to lead his men to a helicopter landing zone. Despite his determination to remain, his fellow Marines insisted on bringing him back on board to alleviate the helicopter's burden.

Battaglia reported that Capers’ commanding general had planned to propose him for the Medal of Honor, but tragically lost his life in a helicopter crash before he could make the recommendation. Capers was awarded a Bronze Star Medal with a “V” device for valor, which was later upgraded to a Silver Star in 2010.

“This is not merely a tribute to a single warrior—it’s a call to support every warrior,” Battaglia stated in the letter. Among the signatories are prominent figures from various military branches, including former Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps John Estrada and retired Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Frank Welch.

Battaglia noted that numerous additional veterans expressed a desire to sign the letter, but a deadline hindered the inclusion of their names. “One hundred thirty-three is hardly a definitive figure,” he remarked.

Earlier this year, a significant group of 47 members of Congress called on Trump to bestow the Medal of Honor upon Capers. Capers, celebrating his 88th birthday this month, was present at a White House ceremony on Thursday honoring National Purple Heart Day.

“I felt a deep sense of honor,” Capers expressed. “Should I be awarded the Medal of Honor, it will be a testament to the support of many—my son Gary, my wife Dottie, and all those who have stood by my side.”

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