Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Field Artillery)

    Action Date:

    March 8, 1964

    Department of the Army, General Orders No. 36 (November 5, 1964)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Field Artillery) Hershell B. Murray, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations in Vietnam on 8 March 1964. Lieutenant Murray was serving as Assistant Battalion Advisor to a ranger battalion of the armed forces of the Republic of Vietnam when the unit suddenly came under attack from hostile forces and suffered heavy casualties. Lieutenant Murray then displayed fortitude, professional skill, and complete disregard for his own personal safety by exposing himself to sniper fire while assisting in the construction of a helicopter pad for the evacuation of the wounded. To bring the helicopter into the small landing area, he exposed himself to the increasing gunfire and sustained a bullet wound. Despite his personal injury, he continued his courageous efforts during the second helicopter evacuation and talked on the radio to guide the pilots away from the strong points of the hostile forces. Lieutenant Murray’s conspicuous gallantry is in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.