Press Releases

Washington, D.C. – Last week, Rep. Ralph Norman (R-SC) and Senator Lindsey Graham sent a letter to President Donald Trump urging him to award Major James Capers, Jr. the Medal of Honor. 

Major Capers was responsible for incredible acts of valor when his Marine Corps special operations team was ambushed during a mission in Phu Loc, Vietnam in 1967 during the Vietnam War.

Rep. Norman has introduced legislation to award Major James Capers, Jr. the Medal of Honor during the 117 and 118 Congresses.

This letter was cosigned by six Senators and forty Members of Congress.

Background

The Medal of Honor is awarded to a military service member who: “distinguishes himself conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty.

1) While engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States;

2) While engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force; or

3) While serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party.”

Major James Capers, Jr., born in Lee County, South Carolina, exemplified actions above and beyond the call of duty, more than meeting the requirements for a Medal of Honor when he led his team of nine out of an ambush where they were outnumbered 3:1 during the Vietnam War.

Thanks to the selfless sacrifice by Major Capers, all nine members of the team were brought to safety and survived the attack, though all members of the team, including Major Capers, were injured.

Major Capers, who now resides in North Carolina, served 22 years in the Marine Corps. He served in combat infantry during the Vietnam War, followed by his re-enlistment where he became the first African American to serve in the Marine Corps’ elite special operations unit, Force Recon. 

During his career, Major Capers and his team conducted over 50 classified missions in Vietnam, amphibious assaults, covert missions to rescue POWs, and a recovery mission for a downed B-57 bomber, while enduring countless injuries including a broken leg.

He continually sacrificed himself before his team, earning three Purple Hearts, the Silver Star, two Bronze Stars and Combat V, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, a Joint Service Commendation Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, three Good Conduct Ribbons, Battle Stars, Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, CG Certificate of Merit, and multiple letters of Merit, Appreciation, and Commendation.

Upon returning to the U.S., he then became the face of the “Ask a Marine” recruiting campaign.

At 85 years old, Major James Capers, Jr. continues his public service by mentoring young Marines.

Statements

"Mr. James Capers, Jr. is a legend and should be honored as one," said Rep. Norman in a statement on Wednesday. "He has lived, seen, and done more in this life than most people could dream of. Major Capers has handled every struggle with strength, humility, and grace. He deserves to be honored as a decorated Marine and for his exemplary character.”

“Major James Capers, Jr. has served his nation with great distinction and is an inspiration to all Marines," said Senator Lindsey Graham. "I am proud to join my colleagues in honoring him for his heroic and selfless action."

“Major James Capers, Jr. overcame humble beginnings to become an American hero," said Senator Tim Scott. "His sacrifice and selflessness on behalf of his brothers in arms embody the American spirit and what it means to go above and beyond the call of duty. I’m proud to recommend to President Trump that this great South Carolinian be rightfully awarded with the Medal of Honor.”

“Major James Capers, Jr. is a hero and his battlefield actions during the Vietnam War are worthy of America’s highest military honor," said Rep. Joe Wilson. "South Carolina is proud of its native son and appreciates his dedicated service to our nation."

"Major Capers' courage and sacrifice exemplify the very best of our nation’s ideals. His heroism deserves the highest recognition, and we strongly urge President Trump to award him the Medal of Honor," said Rep. Nancy Mace."Honoring Major Capers is not just about recognizing one Marine’s extraordinary service—it’s about reaffirming our nation’s commitment to those who have given everything in defense of our freedoms.”

“Major James Capers’ service and sacrifice exemplify the best of our armed forces. His bravery saved lives and demonstrated exceptional leadership,” said Rep. Sheri Biggs. “I proudly stand with my colleagues in urging President Trump to recognize his remarkable service with the Medal of Honor."