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Last week, alongside 46 of my colleagues, I sent a letter to President Trump urging him to award Major James Capers, Jr. the Medal of Honor.

Major James Capers, Jr. is a trailblazer and a symbol of service and sacrifice. Born into poverty during the Jim Crow era, he overcame immense adversity to become the first African American to lead a Marine Reconnaissance company and receive a battlefield commission.

A member of the elite Force Recon unit, Capers excelled, setting records and completing 64 reconnaissance patrols and five major Vietnam campaigns. His leadership made him a father figure to Team Broadminded, a specialized group of Marines.

Capers has earned numerous awards, including the Silver Star, two Bronze Stars, three Purple Hearts, and more, and was recommended for the Medal of Honor for his actions in Vietnam. He also played a key role in the Marine Corps "Ask a Marine" campaign, inspiring young Americans to serve. Despite his remarkable achievements, he has yet to receive the Medal of Honor.

As you may remember, back in 2023, we held an event to meet the honorable Major Capers and had a massive turnout in support of his legacy. It's long overdue to award one of America's greatest patriots the Medal of Honor, and this will hopefully be the final straw that breaks the camel’s back in properly recognizing Major Capers for the hero he is.

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