A South Haven man is in line to receive the nation’s highest military honor for his acts of heroism during the Vietnam War. Congressman Fred Upton and Michigan’s U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow and Gary Peters have introduced legislation to make James “Doc” McCloughan eligible for the Medal of Honor. He is credited with saving the lives of 10 members of his platoon during the Battle of Nui Yon Hill from May 13-15, 1969. In a statement, Upton says McCloughan is “no doubt” an American hero, and his recognition is long overdue. Medal of Honor recipients must be honored within five years of their actions, but the Defense Department has recently recommended the recognition for the South Haven native. During his service, McCloughan was highly decorated and received multiple honors that include the Combat Medical Badge, two Purple Hearts, two Bronze Stars with “V” device for valor, and more.
