Former Illini Wrestler Receives Purple Heart

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Cassie Arner (Illinois Sports Information)
12/09/2004


CHAMPAIGN, Ill. - Former University of Illinois wrestling letterwinner Jon Vaughn will be present and honored at the beginning of the Fighting Illini home opener, Saturday, vs. Central Missouri State after recently receiving a Purple Heart from the U.S. Marines.       Vaughn, a member of the U of I squad from 1994-97, suffered injuries to his hand and leg during battle in Fallujah, Iraq in November. He was then sent to a German hospital for recovery and returned to the States recently. Photos of Vaughn during his time at Illinois and in the Marines will be hung in the Illini wrestling room on the third floor to honor his commitment to his school and his country. Vaughn was a four-time NCAA Qualifier for the Illini at both 134 and 142 pounds.       The wrestling match will be held at Huff Hall, set to begin at 1 p.m.