Major James Capers, Jr.

First African American Marine to receive a battlefield commission
Son of a sharecropper who rose to become one of the most recognized Marines of his era
Endured devastating personal loss, including the death of his toddler son and later his wife
Served as a Force Recon Marine and later as a CIA operative
Honored today with a room named after him at MARSOC
Took part in more than 50 black operations, many classified for decades
Helped repel an insurgent force of more than 100 men in his first combat engagement
Led the rescue of 16 Recon Marines under overwhelming enemy pressure
Guided a five-man team undetected for five days into enemy territory to recover fallen U.S. pilots and top secret materials
Went behind enemy lines on a CIA-sanctioned top secret mission with Team Broadminded
In 2026, receiving Medal of Honor for his actions in Phu Loc in 1967

JAMES CAPERS JR.

Force Recon Marine. Medal of Honor Recipient.

Major James Capers Jr. is one of the most respected Force Reconnaissance Marines in United States military history.

Born in Bishopville, South Carolina, Capers rose to prominence through extraordinary courage, discipline, and leadership during one of the most turbulent periods in the nation’s history. His career would come to define a standard of leadership built on trust, preparation, and responsibility to others.

Service and Leadership

During the Vietnam War, Capers led elite reconnaissance teams deep into hostile territory, operating far beyond conventional support. These missions demanded precision, adaptability, and absolute trust between leader and team.

Capers was among the first African American Marines to command a Force Recon unit in combat. In an era marked by division, he earned the respect of the men around him through action, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the mission.

Recognition

Over the course of his service, Capers received numerous military honors for valor and sacrifice, including the Bronze Star with Combat “V” and the Purple Heart.

In 2026, his actions were formally recognized with the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military award, an acknowledgment of the courage and leadership he demonstrated decades earlier in Vietnam.

Legacy

Major Capers’ legacy extends far beyond the battlefield. He represents a rare kind of leadership: quiet, disciplined, and forged through service under extreme conditions.

His story is not only about the missions he led, but about the standard he set for those who served beside him.

The Brotherhood

The story of Capers is inseparable from the men who served alongside him.

The documentary draws from the voices and experiences of Team Broadminded, fellow Marines whose shared history helps illuminate the brotherhood, sacrifice, and enduring bonds formed in combat.

CAPERS: The Documentary is built from direct access to Major James Capers Jr., rare archival material, and firsthand accounts from those who were there.

Together, they form a deeper portrait, not only of a decorated Marine, but of the man behind the legacy.