The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Henry F. Murphy (NSN: 0-187728), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in action against the enemy while leading an assault boat group during the amphibious invasion of Southern France, on 15 August 1944. When the Assault Boat in which he was leading the initial boat waves to the designated beach struck and was demolished by an enemy mine which killed or wounded three quarters of the embarked personnel, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Murphy, although in a shocked and dazed condition, swam to another assault boat and with fearless energy directed the recovery of survivors and the clearing of incoming waved from the heavily-mined waters. By this action in which he displayed keen alertness, great fortitude and complete disregard of imminent danger, the lives of many assault troops and boat crews were undoubtedly saved as succeeding traffic was diverted from the dangerous areas. His prompt and courageous efforts in controlling the beaching of this assault unit contributed materially to the successful establishment of the beachhead. The extraordinary bravery, prompt and decisive action, and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Murphy were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.