Kevin P. Vaughan

Marine Corps Corporal Kevin P. Vaughan is a true American hero who has fought and sacrificed to protect our country and defend our freedoms.

Corporal Vaughan grew up in North Merrick and graduated from Mepham High School in 2007. Filled with a desire to serve his country, in part inspired by the events of September 11th, he followed in the footsteps of his older brother and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps.

As a member of the 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, Corporal Vaughan served two tours of duty in Marjah, Afghanistan as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. During his first deployment, he was injured while taking measures to save his unit when their mortar failed to fire during an enemy attack.

On September 28, 2011, during his second tour of duty, Corporal Vaughan was wounded in action when his armored vehicle struck a road side bomb. He sustained serious injuries to both legs, and despite several surgeries, doctors were unable to save his left leg.

Corporal Vaughan continues to recover at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and is serving as a physical therapist intern, helping other wounded veterans recover from their injuries. He aspires to become a physical therapist following his discharge from the Marine Corps.

A decorated combat veteran, Corporal Vaughan earned the Purple Heart; Combat Action Ribbon; Navy Unit Commendation Medal; Good Conduct Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Afghanistan Campaign Medal; Global War on Terror Expeditionary Medal; Navy Sea Service Ribbon; NATO Medal; French Fourragére; and New York State Conspicuous Service Cross.

Corporal Vaughan resides with his loving family in North Merrick and is engaged to be married.