The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Second Lieutenant Benjamin H. Murray (MCSN: 0-55934), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a forward Outpost Commander while attached to Company I, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on the night of 26 March 1953. With the outpost subjected to intense artillery and mortar fire and savagely attacked by enemy troops who secured the forward portion of the trench lines, Second Lieutenant Murray unhesitatingly moved from one position to another in the face of heavy mortar, artillery and small-arms fire to organize the defense and resist the enemy penetration. When an automatic rifleman, occupying a key position, became a casualty, Second Lieutenant Murray quickly manned the rifle and delivered accurate and devastating fire on the enemy until another member of the platoon could be moved into the position. Although seriously wounded by an enemy grenade, he refused medical aid and moved through the trenches to encourage his men and strengthen their position. Threatened with a shortage of ammunition on the critical right flank, he braved deadly small-arms and grenade fire to resupply his men and, on several occasions, picked up and hurled the grenades back at the attackers. Following a friendly artillery barrage on the outpost sector that had been overrun by hostile troops, he gallantly led a fire team over the crest of the position and routed the enemy. By his inspiring leadership, marked fortitude and exceptional courage, Second Lieutenant Murray contributed in large measure to the successful defense of the outpost. His great personal valor reflects the highest credit upon himself and enhances the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service.