Trump Awards Medal of Honor to Vietnam War Veteran James McCloughan

President Donald Trump awarded his first Medal of Honor as commander-in-chief on Monday to James McCloughan, a 71-year-old Vietnam War medic who was wounded while saving the lives of his comrades.

WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — "We are in awe of your actions and your bravery," Trump said as he was awarding the medal at a White House ceremony.

McCloughan rescued ten American soldiers and tended to countless others during fierce battles from May 13 to May 15, 1969, Trump said.

#USArmy veteran James McCloughan was just awarded the #MedalofHonor by @POTUS. Learn about his amazing story here https://t.co/VPM5KenMKO pic.twitter.com/AnzjozVYl7

— U.S. Army (@USArmy) 31 июля 2017 г.

​The fighting was part of the 1969 Battle of Hui Yon Hill during which US forces came under heavy rocket-propelled grenade attacks from enemy Vietnamese soldiers.

Throughout the two days of battle, McCloughan repeatedly charged into the line of fire to rescue his fallen comrades who were unable to move, Trump said.

The former combat medic refused to be evacuated after he suffered wounds from shrapnel and small arms fire.

McCloughan's eyes filled with tears as Trump put the Medal of Honor around his neck and the audience broke into applause.