US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session

US Federal Senate Bill SB3781

Introduced
2/4/26  

Caption

A bill to authorize the President to award the Medal of Honor to James Capers, Jr., for acts of valor as a member of the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War

Impact

If enacted, this bill would formally recognize the brave acts of James Capers, Jr., which occurred between March 31 and April 3, 1967. It highlights the recognition of military personnel whose acts of heroism might otherwise be overlooked due to technicalities in medal eligibility criteria. By awarding the Medal of Honor, the legislation reinforces the importance of recognizing military valor and could serve as inspiration both for current service members and for the broader public.

Summary

SB3781 is a bill that seeks to authorize the President of the United States to award the Medal of Honor to James Capers, Jr., for his valorous actions as a member of the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. The bill specifically addresses the time limitations that are typically specified in U.S. law regarding the awarding of certain military medals, allowing for an exception in the case of Capers' exemplary service.

Contention

The bill hinges on the historical context of the Vietnam War and may bring to light discussions regarding past military actions and their recognition. While there may be broad support for honoring individuals like Capers, there could also be debates over the criteria for medal awards and the implications of revisiting historical military accolades. Additionally, critics might voice concerns regarding the prioritization of such awards amidst ongoing military and veteran issues.

Companion Bills

US HB3377

Same As To authorize the President to award the Medal of Honor to James Capers, Jr., for acts of valor as a member of the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War.

Previously Filed As

US HB3377

To authorize the President to award the Medal of Honor to James Capers, Jr., for acts of valor as a member of the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War.

US HB7211

To authorize the President to award the Medal of Honor to John W. Ripley for acts of valor during the Vietnam War, and for other purposes.

US HB3175

To authorize the President to award the Medal of Honor to Thomas H. Griffin for acts of valor as a member of the Army during the Vietnam War.

US HB5293

To authorize the President to award the Medal of Honor to Ret. Col. Robert J. Graham for acts of valor while as a member of the Air Force during the Vietnam War.

US HB4580

To authorize the President to award the Medal of Honor to retired Colonel Philip J. Conran for acts of valor in Laos as a member of the Air Force during the Vietnam War.

US HB1819

To authorize the President to award the Medal of Honor to E. Royce Williams for acts of valor during the Korean War.

US S0511

Major James Capers, Jr.

US HB2335

To authorize the President to award the Medal of Honor to Doris Miller posthumously for acts of valor while a member of the Navy during World War II.

US HB5012

To authorize the President to award the Purple Heart to Louis Boria, Jr., for injuries incurred during World War II and the Korean War while a member of the Marine Corps.

US HB763

James J. Andrews and William H. Campbell Congressional Gold Medal ActThis bill provides for the award of a single Congressional Gold Medal in commemoration of James J. Andrews and William H. Campbell to recognize their bravery and devotion during the Civil War as the only civilian members of Andrews’ Raiders, who launched a daring military raid that became known as the Great Locomotive Chase.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.