CASCADE TOWNSHIP, Mich. -- Dozens of people, including the Patriot Guard Riders gathered at Gerald R Ford International Wednesday evening to welcome home James McCloughan. The South Haven native was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Trump on Monday.
The Army also honored him at a reception Sunday night: "I’ve never seen so much brass in one room at one time," he laughed.
For all the honors, McCloughan admitted on his return to Michigan that it took a long time for him to process his experience. "It took my till 2011 to go and talk about some things that I had harbored for a long time."
McCloughan was recognized for his actions in during the Vietnam War. McCloughan, then a private first class and Army medic, entered the "kill zone" during the Battle of Nui Yon Hill. During his time there, he rescued several injured comrades, despite his wounds from shrapnel.
James McCloughan during his time in service
Those who waiting for him at the airport Wednesday night said that greeting him was the least they could do for an American hero.
"First time he probably came home from Vietnam, he probably got spit on, just like the rest of them did, or called a baby killer and stuff," said Tony Vangessel with the Patriot Guard Riders. "We're here tonight to make sure that doesn't happen again and he gets his proper welcome home."
