A standing ovation filled the room as Major James Capers Jr., one of the most decorated Marines in U.S. history, received the Salute to Service Award at the Fox Nation Patriot Awards, a moment honoring not just his extraordinary heroism, but his trailblazing role as a Black Marine who broke barriers across military history.

Born in South Carolina and raised during the Jim Crow era, Major Capers defied the limits imposed on Black Americans of his time. Enlisting in the Marine Corps in 1953, he went on to serve three tours in Vietnam, leading dangerous reconnaissance missions as part of Force Reconnaissance, the Marine Corps’ elite special operations unit. His leadership, courage, and resilience made him one of the first African Americans to command such a unit, a historic achievement that paved the way for generations to follow.

Over his career, Capers earned more than 70 awards and decorations, including the Silver Star, Bronze Star with Combat “V”, and five Purple Hearts. Despite his heroism, his path to recognition was long delayed; his 2007 nomination for the Medal of Honor was never approved, a controversy many saw as another example of the racial inequities that have long shadowed U.S. military recognition.

At the Fox Nation Patriot Awards, presenters highlighted Capers’ enduring humility and service to others. His story, one of bravery, pain, and perseverance, remains a powerful reminder that America’s strength lies in the courage of those who serve, even when the nation itself is slow to acknowledge their worth.

“Major Capers embodies what it means to be an American hero,” one presenter said. “He risked everything for a country that didn’t always see him as equal, and still he served with unmatched honor.”

Today, Major Capers continues to inspire both veterans and civilians, representing the unshakable pride and perseverance of the Black men and women who helped shape the modern U.S. military. His recognition is not just overdue, it’s a celebration of faith, resilience, and true patriotism.