Jakarta Aktual – 19 June 2026 | James Capers Jr, a retired Marine Major, was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Donald Trump at the White House on June 18, 2026. This prestigious award is the highest military decoration in the United States, and it was given to James Capers Jr for his exceptional bravery and leadership during the Vietnam War. James Capers Jr, who is also known as the “father of Marine Corps Special Operations,” dedicated the medal to the young men who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
James Capers Jr’s journey to receiving the Medal of Honor began in 1967, when he was a team leader with the 3d Force Reconnaissance Company, 3d Reconnaissance Battalion in Vietnam. During a four-day reconnaissance patrol, James Capers Jr and his team were tasked with locating a North Vietnamese regimental base camp. Despite being outnumbered, James Capers Jr tenaciously continued the mission, directing fire onto the enemy base camp and thwarting an impending attack on a nearby Marine battalion.
On the final day of the patrol, James Capers Jr’s team was ambushed by a claymore mine, and they came under heavy enemy fire. James Capers Jr sustained multiple severe wounds, including a stomach wound and a broken leg, but he refused to give up. Instead, he continued to lead his team, coordinating supporting fire and directing their movement to an extraction site. James Capers Jr’s selfless actions that day saved the lives of his fellow Marines, and his bravery and leadership have inspired countless others.
James Capers Jr’s story is one of courage, sacrifice, and dedication to his country. After receiving the Medal of Honor, James Capers Jr said that the recognition was bittersweet, as he had lost so much during the war. However, he also expressed his gratitude to the President and the country for acknowledging his service. James Capers Jr’s legacy will live on, inspiring future generations of Marines and Americans to follow in his footsteps.
In addition to his military service, James Capers Jr has also made a significant impact in his community. In 1983, he purchased WWIL 1490 AM, a radio station in Wilmington, North Carolina, making it the only Black-owned radio station in the city at the time. James Capers Jr’s commitment to his community and his country is a testament to his character and his values.
James Capers Jr’s story is a reminder of the sacrifices that have been made by our military heroes and their families. It is a story of courage, honor, and sacrifice, and it serves as an inspiration to us all. As we reflect on James Capers Jr’s journey, we are reminded of the importance of recognizing and honoring the service of our military heroes, and we are grateful for their bravery and selflessness.
