The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Sergeant Richard H. Murphy (MCSN: 270066), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Leader of a Rifle Platoon, serving with Company B, First Battalion, Twenty-Fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, the night of 19 February 1945. Electing to remain with his platoon despite a painful shrapnel wound in his shoulder sustained earlier in the action, First Sergeant Murphy personally reconnoitered enemy-infested forward areas to select positions for his men in establishing a front line defensive for the night. Despite the confusion, he moved about in the darkness under the enemy’s incessant shellfire to distribute grenades among his men and encourage them to remain steadfast in the face of eminent counterattack. Fatally struck down shortly thereafter by hostile fire, First Sergeant Murphy, by his courageous leadership, valiant spirit and grave concern for the safety of others in the face of tremendous odds, had so inspired his platoon that the bitter Japanese onslaught was repulsed expeditiously and with a minimum of casualties. His stouthearted devotion to duty throughout reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.