The First in Freedom Parade is proud to welcome Maj. James Capers Jr., U.S. Marine Corps (Retired), Medal of Honor recipient, as the Grand Marshal for North Carolina’s signature America 250 celebration.

Maj. Capers is one of the nation’s most distinguished Marines, recognized for his extraordinary courage, leadership, and selfless service during the Vietnam War. On June 18, 2026, he received the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military award for valor, during a White House ceremony. The following day, he was inducted into the Pentagon’s Hall of Heroes, ensuring his legacy will inspire future generations of American service members.

Originally awarded the Silver Star for his actions during a four-day reconnaissance mission near Phu Loc, Vietnam, then-Capt. Capers led a small Marine reconnaissance team deep into enemy territory to locate a North Vietnamese regimental base camp. Despite repeated engagements with a significantly larger enemy force, he continued the mission, successfully directing supporting fire that disrupted an impending attack on a nearby Marine battalion.

On the mission’s final day, his team was ambushed by a claymore mine and came under intense enemy fire. Maj. Capers suffered multiple life-threatening wounds and severe blood loss, yet refused to abandon his Marines. He continued leading the patrol, coordinating supporting fire, and directing his team’s movement to an extraction site. True to the Marine Corps’ commitment to never leave a fellow Marine behind, he refused evacuation until every member of his team had safely boarded the rescue helicopter.

Reflecting on the honor, Maj. Capers shared:

“Receiving the Medal of Honor for what we did at Phu Loc is a profound and humbling milestone, but this medal does not belong to me. It belongs to the exceptional men who fought with me, whose absolute trust, preparation, and shared sacrifice made survival possible in the darkest of circumstances.”

A native of Bishopville, South Carolina, Maj. Capers enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1956. After serving ten years as an enlisted Marine and rising to the rank of sergeant, he earned a battlefield commission in 1966. During his remarkable 22-year military career, he became one of the Marine Corps’ pioneering Force Reconnaissance leaders, commanding elite reconnaissance units before retiring as a major in 1978.

General Eric Smith, Commandant of the Marine Corps, described Maj. Capers as a Marine Corps legend, stating that his “valor, unwavering resolve, and fighting spirit continue to inspire Marines today, and Marines will carry their legacy forward for generations to come.”

As North Carolina commemorates America’s 250th Anniversary, the First in Freedom Parade is honored to have Maj. James Capers Jr. lead this historic celebration. His lifelong dedication to service, courage under fire, and unwavering commitment to his fellow Marines embody the very ideals of freedom, sacrifice, and patriotism that this parade seeks to celebrate.

Please join us in giving a warm North Carolina welcome to our 2026 First in Freedom Parade Grand Marshal, Maj. James Capers Jr., Medal of Honor recipient and American hero.