The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Cyril R. Murphy, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 180th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 26 May 1944, near Carano, Italy. Lieutenant Murphy was commanding a rifle company in an advance along an open field without cover or concealment, against a strongly entrenched enemy which was disposed along a deep ditch 80 yards to the front. As the attack progressed, heavy enemy artillery and small arms fire caused a large number of casualties, and all officers of the company except for Lieutenant Murphy were killed or wounded. Moving about through this intense fire, Lieutenant Murphy maintained full control of his troops, encouraging them to advance toward the objective. As the depleted company reached a line 200 yards short of the enemy position, he was severely wounded by small arms fire. Despite his painful wounds, he regrouped his elements for the final assault and led his company in a vicious charge on the strongly defended enemy position. His inspiring example was instrumental in the annihilation of the enemy force and the success of the company’s mission. Not until assured that the newly-won objective was consolidated did Lieutenant Murphy permit himself to be evacuated. The gallant conduct displayed by First Lieutenant Murphy in his expert leadership of his men to victory against heavy odds is exemplary of the finest traditions of the Army of the United States.