THE WALL OF FACES

than that man lay down is life for a friend."

Semper Fi, Marine...you did good

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. Your Silver Star citation attests to your courage and devotion to your fellow soldiers. May you rest in eternal peace.

Claud it was my pleasure to have gone through boot camp with you. Your sacrifice for your fellow Marines and Country is not forgotten. May you Rest In Peace with the knowledge that your sacrifice made a difference.

Semper Fi Brother

Claud W. Capraro
Date of death: December 3, 1968
Home of record: Penrose Colorado
Status: KIA

AWARDS AND CITATIONS

Silver Star

Awarded for actions during the Vietnam War

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Claud W. Capraro (MCSN: 2373669), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Platoon Guide with Company K, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the night of 3 December 1968, Corporal Capraro was a member of a combat patrol which discovered seven enemy soldiers hiding in a small, camouflaged hut south of DaNang in Quang Nam Province. Accompanied by two comrades, Corporal Capraro fearlessly approached the position and called for the enemy to surrender. In a vain attempt to escape, several of the hostile soldiers ran out of the hut firing their weapons and throwing hand grenades. In the initial burst of enemy fire, a Marine was wounded and fell dangerously exposed to a grenade thrown from the hut. Completely disregarding his own safety, Corporal Capraro unhesitatingly threw himself on top of the wounded Marine and shielded him from the exploding grenade at the cost of his own life. His heroic and timely actions earned the respect and admiration of all who observed him and saved the life of a fellow Marine. By his courage, bold initiative and selfless devotion to duty, Corporal Capraro upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Action Date: 3-Dec-68

Service: Marine Corps

Rank: Corporal

Company: Company K

Battalion: 3d Battalion

Regiment: 7th Marines

Division: 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF

Dear Cpl Claud Capraro,
Thank you for your service as a Rifleman. It is another autumn, and time has passed since this war. It is important for us all to acknowledge the sacrifices of those like you who answered our nation's call. Please watch over America, it stills needs your courage and faithfulness. Rest in peace with the angels.