WASHINGTON, DC (WHTC-AM/FM) – An Army veteran from West Michigan has finally been recognized for his heroic efforts over 40 years ago in the Vietnam War.
At a White House ceremony yesterday, President Trump said the South Haven man has “earned his place among legends” by saving the lives of other soldiers despite being wounded himself. Jim McCloughan risked his life no less than nine times after being hit with shrapnel from a rocket propelled grenade.
Jim McCloughan is the latest recipient of the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest honor for valor on the field of battle. McCloughan says the medal of honor was about love.
“A love so deep in the soul of 89 men who fought the battle for Nui Yon Hill that it is impossible to measure. For those who have given the ultimate sacrifice, we acknowledge that they gave up two lives. The one they were living and the one they never got to live.”
McCloughan risked his life no less than nine times after being hit with shrapnel from a rocket propelled grenade.
According to the US Army website, following his service in Vietnam, McCloughan returned to his teaching and coaching profession. In 1972, he earned a Master of Arts in counseling and psychology from Western Michigan University.
McCloughan taught sociology and psychology at South Haven High School until his retirement in 2008. He currently lives in South Haven, Michigan with his wife Chérie.
