City of Dunedin Flies Flags at Half-Staff for Local Veteran

Published on September 28, 2026

On the evening of September 25, 2026, American Legion Post 275 Commander Joseph Hardy announced the passing of Mal Clingan to the Legion Family and ordered that the Posts 275 Flags be flown at half-staff in his memory thru internment. VFW Post 2550 and the City of Dunedin followed soon after. City flags will stay lowered for seven days, effective Monday, September 28.

Mal served with distinction in the United States Army from 1963-67. In 1966, he was transferred to 25th Infantry Division Medical Battalion operating in the Cu Chi district of Saigon during the Vietnam War. He saw action as a combat medic, and he was wounded in action in the beginning of 1967. He cared deeply for the men he treated on the battlefield.

He was awarded the Purple Heart, Army Accommodation Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon with Device, Meritorious Unit Emblem, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm Unit Citation, Vietnam Service Medal with one Bronze Service Star, Good Conduct Medal and National Defense Service Medal.

Mal was a key figure in the Dunedin veteran community. He served many years on the executive committee of Post 275, Commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart JFK Post 1963 and the Pinellas County Veterans Advisory Committee. His commitment to the veteran community will be felt and missed in the Dunedin community far into the future and can be seen in the solemn beauty of Dunedin’s Purple Heart Park.

He leaves behind his wife of 43 years DeeDee Clingan, family, and friends. His presence in at the American Legion Post 275 and in the Veteran Community will be missed by many.