The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant First Class Paul J. Murphy (ASN: RA-39497595), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 24 September 1950 in the vicinity of Hyopchon, Korea. On that date he was a squad leader in a platoon which had the mission of securing and holding a bitterly defended enemy-held hill. During the attack Sergeant Murphy was severely wounded by a grenade fragment. Disregarding his painful wound, he continued to skillfully lead his squad through intense enemy machine gun and grenade fire. Upon reaching the crest of the hill, the platoon received heavy machine gun fire from its front. With complete indifference for his personal safety Sergeant Murphy reorganized his squad and led it in an assault which destroyed the enemy machine gun and enabled his platoon to consolidate its position. Refusing to be evacuated, he continued to lead his squad until he was unable to move further. The gallantry and high devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Murphy on this occasion reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the high traditions of the military service.