A Hero

Dan Murphy, Father of LT Michael Murphy stands alongside USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112) at Naval Station Newport.
The official commissioning of the ship will take place Oct 6th in New York City.

Saw this photograph over at The JOPA. Just had to share it. In that picture is the father of a true American hero.

I recently read Marcus Luttrell's book, "Lone Survivor" in which he tells the story of the mission which cost the United States the lives of three of their best: LT Murphy, Danny Dietz and  Matthew Axelson. Marcus was the lone survivor of the title. If you have not read this book, do so. It will give you some idea of the challenges faced by our men and women who are out there, for us.

So this post is a short one, a tribute to one man who gave his future for our today. And in remembrance of all of those brave men and women who answered freedom's call. Especially those who gave everything.

LT Murphy's Awards and Decorations

LT Michael P. Murphy, USN

LT Murphy's Medal of Honor Citation

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life and 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 the 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 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, Lieutenant Murphy reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.