The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Hugh Quin Murray (NSN: 0-73546), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. JEFFERS (DD-621), during action against enemy forces in the Bay of Seine, France, from 6 to 29 June 1944. Operating as part of the Area Screen of the Naval Western Task Force, Commander Murray rendered valuable service in protecting vessels in the area from German surface forces, submarines and aircraft. His courage and devotion to duty throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Commander Hugh Quin Murray (NSN: 0-73546), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. JEFFERS (DD-621), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Okinawa on 12 April 1945. Fighting his ship with skill, courage and determination while under a hostile multiple-plane suicide attack followed by a Baka bomb attack, Commander Murray caused the JEFFERS to deliver effective gunfire which destroyed two Japanese planes and caused the bomb to crash short. His forceful leadership and unwavering devotion to duty under enemy attack reflect the highest credit upon Commander Murray and the United States Naval Service.