Vietnam War veteran James Capers Jr. receives Medal of Honor after nearly 20-year wait

Published Aug 20, 08:00 PM UTC

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Retired Marine Corps Maj. James Capers Jr. finally received the Medal of Honor in June 2026 at the White House, nearly 20 years after a campaign for recognition began. The ceremony concluded a struggle marked by grief over his wife's death, institutional rejection, and deteriorating health. Capers, a legendary Force Reconnaissance Marine, was recommended for the award in 2007 after a general investigated the 'lost detachment' of 3rd Force Reconnaissance Company, whose Vietnam records were missing. President Donald Trump acknowledged the delay, saying 'the nation kept you waiting far too long.' Capers served in Vietnam in 1966-67, leading an all-white platoon with extraordinary bravery and leadership. The article details his military career and the personal toll of the long fight for recognition.

Source

Military TimesWestern

Original headline: He earned the Medal of Honor in Vietnam. Why did it take decades to receive it?

Original language: EN

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Retired Marine Maj. James Capers Jr. finally receives Medal of Honor after decades

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