A coalition of U.S. military veterans and lawmakers are advocating for President Trump to bestow the Medal of Honor upon Major James Capers, an 87-year-old Marine Corps veteran whose valor in the Vietnam War went unrecognized by the Biden administration. Capers's heroic actions in 1967, during an ambush in Phú Lộc, saved the lives of seven fellow Marines. Despite suffering severe injuries from claymore mines, including a ruptured stomach and a broken leg, Capers maintained command, directed his unit's defense, and ensured their evacuation. He even attempted to sacrifice himself by jumping from the overloaded medevac helicopter so that others could escape.

While Capers received the Silver Star, many believe his extraordinary bravery warrants the Medal of Honor. Beyond his wartime service, Capers continued to dedicate himself to the Marine Corps through the "Ask a Marine" program, inspiring generations of recruits. Supporters highlight not only his battlefield courage but also his resilience in overcoming racial discrimination during the Jim Crow era to serve his country with distinction.

Given his age and declining health, there's growing concern that Capers may not receive this prestigious recognition in time. Bill Cortese, a fellow Marine veteran and advocate for Capers, expressed confidence that President Trump will prioritize this matter. Cortese believes that Capers embodies the unifying spirit of military service, transcending political divides and serving as an exemplary figure for the nation. He also voiced his perplexity at the Biden administration's inaction, speculating that Capers's rejection of "woke ideology" may have contributed to the oversight.

The campaign to award Capers the Medal of Honor recently gained significant traction with a bipartisan letter signed by 47 members of Congress urging President Trump to recognize Capers's extraordinary service. They emphasized that Capers's selflessness, leadership, and courage exemplify the highest ideals of the U.S. Armed Forces. Cortese expressed gratitude for the lawmakers' support and underscored the importance of honoring veterans who have paved the way for future generations.