Lt. Michael Patrick Murphy was a U.S. Navy SEAL who received a posthumous Medal of Honor for his service in Afghanistan. He became the first member of the Navy to earn the award since the Vietnam War.
Background
A distinguished scholar, Murphy attended Pennsylvania State University, earning dual degrees in political science and psychology. Upon graduation, he joined the military and enrolled at the Merchant Marine Academy, training to become a SEAL. Murphy eventually earned his SEAL Trident in July 2002.
Deployment
In 2005, Murphy deployed to Afghanistan for Operation Enduring Freedom. In June of that year, he traveled with three other service members into the steep mountains of Kunar Province on a special reconnaissance mission. Along with Danny Dietz, Matthew Axelson, and Marcus Luttrell, Murphy was charged with tracking a high-ranking member of the Taliban, Ahmad Shah. Shah had become the leader of the Mountain Tigers, an insurgent group gaining influence in the northeast.
MoH Citation:
“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 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, 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.” – Congressional Medal of Honor Society
Awards
President George W. Bush presented Lt. Murphy’s parents with his Medal of Honor during a ceremony at the White House on October 22nd, 2007. He also earned the Silver Star Medal and the Purple Heart.
How to support the Medal of Honor mission
- Learn more about the Congressional Medal of Honor Society at cmohs.org or find them on Instagram |Facebook
- Participate in Medal of Honor Day on March 25 by sharing a recipient’s story
- Support veteran hiring and transition programs in your workplace
- Teach younger generations about the values of courage, sacrifice, and service
Medal of Honor Month isn’t just about recognizing history. It’s about keeping the mission alive for the future. Observe Medal of Honor March on We Are The Mighty here.