The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant William J. Murphy, Jr. (ASN: 37482390), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 318th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 25 December 1944 in Belgium. Staff Sergeant Murphy, while leading his rifle squad in an assault was delayed in advancing by fire from an enemy machine gun. Locating the gun, he immediately directed and led the assault on it by charging forward and hurling a grenade which completely disabled the crew and destroyed the gun. The personal bravery, gallant leadership, and loyal devotion to duty displayed by Staff Sergeant Murphy were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.