President Donald Trump awarded the Medal of Honor to three American military heroes during a White House ceremony, recognizing extraordinary acts of bravery performed during the Vietnam and Afghanistan wars.
Among those honored was retired U.S. Marine Major James Capers Jr., who received the nation's highest military decoration nearly six decades after he was first recommended for the award. Capers, now 88, became the first Black Marine officer recommended for the Medal of Honor.
Speaking during the ceremony, Trump noted that Capers had been widely regarded as deserving of the award since 1967.
Congressional action earlier this year cleared the way for the long-delayed recognition after bipartisan legislation was passed to address procedural barriers that had prevented the recommendation from moving forward.
In addition, the award was bestowed posthumously upon John W. Ripley for heroism during the Vietnam War. Family members accepted the honor on Ripley's behalf.
Capers earned distinction while leading a Marine reconnaissance team near Phu Loc, Vietnam, where he repeatedly displayed courage under enemy fire.
His actions became well known within the Marine Corps and contributed to a legacy of service that fellow veterans and military leaders have long celebrated.
Related Tweet:
President Trump awards the Medal of Honor to retired Marine Maj. James Capers Jr. for extraordinary heroism during a four-day reconnaissance mission in Vietnam.
— Fox News (@FoxNews) June 18, 2026
Despite suffering multiple severe wounds and massive blood loss after his team was ambushed, Capers continued leading… pic.twitter.com/itiAsrhcAz
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