Born in Lincoln, Lancaster County, Nebraska, McLaughlin attended the public schools and then received an Artium Baccalaureus degree from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in 1908.

McLaughlin was in the United States Army American Expeditionary Forces from 1918 to 1919, during the World War I, serving as Captain of the 347th Field Artillery of the 91st Division, and was discharged on April 30, 1919.

He was confirmed by the United States Senate on February 27, 1950, and received his commission on March 1, 1950.

His service was terminated on February 5, 1976, due to his death in Washington, D.C., where he resided.

He was interred in the Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Silver Spring, Maryland.