Major James Capers Jr. Celebrated with Distinguished Service Award
Major James Capers Jr., an 88-year-old U.S. Marine Corps veteran, is receiving well-deserved recognition for his lifetime of service. He was honored at the 7th annual Fox Nation Patriot Awards, where he received the “Distinguished Service Award.”
Reflecting on the moment, Capers described it as “the pinnacle of my life” during an appearance on “Fox & Friends.” His service in the Vietnam War is particularly notable; he saved seven fellow Marines during an ambush in the jungle in 1967, where many were injured—including Capers himself.
Despite suffering severe injuries, including a gash in his stomach and a broken leg, Capers soldiered on. He continued to lead his men and held off the enemy until a medevac helicopter arrived.
While he was proud to receive the recognition, Capers expressed a wish that his late wife, son, and fellow Marines could have witnessed it. “It broke my heart to think that this is what I lived to do,” he remarked, acknowledging the absence of those he fought alongside.
Capers’s bravery ensured that all Marines under his command survived the harrowing ordeal, earning him a Bronze Star, which was subsequently upgraded to a Silver Star.
Wearing distinctive cowboy boots, he shared a poignant story about them, mentioning how he wore them to cover skin grafts from his injuries. His experiences during the war have also ignited discussions advocating for President Donald Trump to award him the Medal of Honor. Notably, Capers was the first African American to serve in a Marine Corps reconnaissance battalion during the Vietnam War.
Post-war, he remained committed to the Marine Corps, seeking to inspire younger generations with his invaluable experiences. Capers voiced concerns over current military recruitment challenges but remained hopeful about the patriotism of younger generations. “It will come,” he said, reflecting on the feelings he had as a young man.
During the ceremony, Secretary of the Army Pete Hegseth took the stage to thank Capers personally for his service, highlighting the profound impact of his contributions. The Patriot Awards also included other recognitions such as the Young Patriot and Heroism Award, celebrating individuals who exemplify courage, service, and love for their country.
