 Citation...
The President of the United States of
America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of
Honor to Lieutenant Michael P. Murphy, United States Navy, for
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life, above and
beyond the call of duty, as the leader of a special reconnaissance
element with Naval Special Warfare Task Unit Afghanistan on 27 and 28
June 2005.
While leading a mission to locate a
high-level anti-coalition militia leader, Lieutenant Murphy demonstrated
extraordinary heroism in the face of grave danger in the vicinity of
Asadabad, Konar Province, Afghanistan.
On 28 June 2005, operating in an
extremely rugged, enemy-controlled area, Lieutenant Murphy's team was
discovered by anti-coalition militia sympathizers who revealed their
position to Taliban fighters. As a result, between 30 and 40 enemy
fighters besieged his four-member team.
Demonstrating
exceptional resolve, Lieutenant Murphy valiantly led his men in
engaging the large enemy force. The ensuing fierce firefight
resulted in numerous enemy casualties, as well as the wounding of
all four members of his team. Ignoring his own wounds and
demonstrating exceptional composure, Lieutenant Murphy continued to
lead and encourage his men. When the primary communicator fell
mortally wounded, Lieutenant Murphy repeatedly attempted to call for
assistance for his beleaguered teammates. Realizing the
impossibility of communicating in the extreme terrain and in the
face of almost certain death, he fought his way into an open terrain
to gain a better position to transmit a call. This deliberate heroic
act deprived him of cover, exposing him to direct enemy fire.
Finally achieving contact with his headquarters, Lieutenant Murphy
maintained his exposed position while he provided his location and
requested immediate support for his team.
In his final act of bravery, he continued to engage the enemy until
he was mortally wounded, gallantly giving his life for his country
and for the cause of freedom. By his selfless leadership, courageous
actions, and extraordinary devotion to duty, Lieutenant Murphy
reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
President George W. Bush's Presentation
of MoH to Lieutenant Murphy's Family |
Murphy, Michael P.
