North Carolina Commissioner of Labor Luke Farley this week announced that retired U.S. Marine Corps Maj. James Capers Jr., a newly awarded Medal of Honor recipient and longtime North Carolina resident, will serve as Grand Marshal of the First in Freedom Parade on Saturday, July 4, in downtown Raleigh.
“Major James Capers Jr. represents the very best of our state and our nation,” Farley said. “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.”
President Donald J. Trump presented Maj. Capers with the Medal of Honor on June 18, 2026, recognizing his extraordinary heroism during the Vietnam War. The award upgraded the Silver Star he originally received for his actions while leading a four-day reconnaissance patrol deep in enemy territory…