The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade William Edward Murphy, United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron EIGHTY-TWO (VB-82), attached to the U.S.S. BENNINGTON (CV-20), in action against major units of the enemy Japanese Fleet in the East China Sea near Kyushu, Japan, on 7 April 1945. Participating in the initial bombing strike during adverse weather, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Murphy braved an intense barrage of anti-aircraft fire to press home a determined attack and, by his courage and airmanship, contributed materially to the sinking of an enemy battleship. His aggressive fighting spirit and devotion to the completion of a hazardous mission were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.