In a celebration of valor and patriotism, retired U.S. Marine Corps Maj. James Capers Jr., a decorated hero and long-standing resident of North Carolina, has been appointed as the Grand Marshal for the First in Freedom Parade. This announcement was made by North Carolina Commissioner of Labor Luke Farley, who praised Maj. Capers for his extraordinary courage and dedication.
Honoring a Hero
“Major James Capers Jr. represents the very best of our state and our nation,” expressed Commissioner Farley. “His extraordinary courage under fire, unwavering commitment to his fellow Marines, and lifetime of service embody the values we celebrate every Independence Day. It is an incredible honor to welcome this American hero as Grand Marshal of the First in Freedom Parade.”
Medal of Honor Recognition
Maj. Capers was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Donald J. Trump on June 18, 2026. This prestigious award was an upgrade from the Silver Star he initially received for his notable actions during a strenuous reconnaissance patrol in the Vietnam War, where he led his team against overwhelming enemy forces.
Throughout the mission, Capers showcased exceptional leadership, enabling his team to disrupt a potential attack on a nearby Marine battalion by directing effective supporting fire. Even when ambushed by a claymore mine, he maintained his leadership, coordinating his team’s movement and securing their safe extraction, only allowing himself to be evacuated after all his Marines were safe.
A Legacy of Service
Residing in Jacksonville, North Carolina, Maj. Capers continues to be a respected figure in the special operations community. With his recent accolade, he becomes the state’s 22nd Medal of Honor recipient and is notably the first African American commissioned officer in the U.S. Marine Corps to receive this honor.
“North Carolina has long been home to some of America’s greatest military heroes,” said Farley. “As we celebrate our nation’s independence, there is no one more fitting to lead this year’s First in Freedom Parade than Major James Capers Jr. His courage and selfless leadership continue to inspire generations of North Carolinians.”
The First in Freedom Parade is an annual event that pays tribute to North Carolina’s deep-seated patriotic traditions and honors the service and sacrifices of those who have fought to protect American freedoms.
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