Trump presents the Medal of Honor to 3 veterans for heroism in Vietnam, Afghanistan

President Donald Trump awarded the Medal of Honor to three veterans in a ceremony held in Washington. The recipients were Marine Corps Maj. James Capers Jr., Army Maj. Nicholas Dockery, and posthumously to Marine Corps Col. John W. Ripley.

During the ceremony, Trump praised the heroism of the recipients, stating, “These are great men, great people. We thank you and we will never, ever forget you.” Capers, 88, was recognized for his bravery during a reconnaissance mission in Vietnam in 1967. Despite being injured, he took command of the firefight and called in air support to repel the ambush, ultimately saving the lives of his fellow Marines.

Ripley was honored for his courageous act of blowing up a crucial bridge in Vietnam in 1972 to halt the advance of North Vietnamese forces. Trump commended Ripley for his selfless actions, which ultimately prevented the enemy from advancing.

Dockery’s heroic actions in Afghanistan in 2012 were also recognized during the ceremony. He risked his life to rescue wounded soldiers and shielded them from enemy fire, displaying exceptional bravery and selflessness in the face of danger.

The ceremony was a poignant moment as Trump personally pinned the Medal of Honor on each recipient, ensuring that the medal was straight and level against their chests. The families of the recipients were in attendance, adding to the emotional atmosphere of the event.

Overall, the Medal of Honor ceremony was a powerful tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of these veterans. Their actions serve as a reminder of the extraordinary courage displayed by members of the military in the face of adversity.