The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Sergeant Francis J. Murphy (MCSN: 10047), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving with the THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced) during the landing attack on Puruata Island, British Solomon Islands, on 1 November 1943. In charge of two 75 millimeter self-propelled anti-tank guns, Chief Warrant Officer Murphy unhesitatingly volunteered to assist in reducing an enemy position of three strongly defended pill-boxes well protected by hostile snipers. Although the terrain, overgrown with heavy brush, afforded poor visibility and the armor protection of the guns was ineffective against the withering blasts of enemy grenades and machine-gun fire, he courageously directed the approach to the hostile pill box position and launched a vigorous attack. Leaving his post of command when it proved difficult for the gunners to sight their target, he proceeded to an open space and, although wounded, remained in this exposed position, directing the fire of the guns until the enemy emplacement had been destroyed. Chief Warrant Officer Murphy’s inspiring leadership in the face of great danger was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.