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 Private Robert M. Murphy (ASN: US-52106922), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company A, 1st Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, near Pyoru, Korea, on 13 October 1951. His company was holding positions for the night and making preparations for continuing its attack in the morning. Shortly before midnight, the enemy, supported by an intense mortar barrage, launched a savage assault. Four fanatical attempts to overrun the friendly lines were repulsed. Private Murphy, point man for his squad, played a vital part in beating off the enemy hordes, firing with devastating accuracy into the onrushing waves. As the tempo of the battle intensified, the enemy made another attack, charging forward with such fanaticism and weight of numbers that the friendly unit was forced to withdraw to more defensible positions. Private Murphy, with complete disregard for his own safety, unhesitatingly remained in his emplacement, single-handedly holding off the attackers, five of whom he killed but a few yards from his position. He was mortally wounded while still fighting, but his valiant stand gave his comrades time to reorganize and to ultimately recapture the objective. Private Murphy’s gallant action, indomitable fighting spirit and self-sacrificing devotion to duty reflect the highest credit on himself and the United States Infantry.