The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Ernest P. Murphy (ASN: 0-1703042), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company H, 3d Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action against the enemy on 7 January 1945, at ****, Belgium. While leading his platoon on a frontal attack against strong enemy forces at ****, Belgium, one of his two supporting tank destroyers was knocked out by an enemy mine, causing heavy casualties among his platoon. First Lieutenant Murphy, with utter disregard for his own personal safety, crawled through the enemy fire to a point of vantage and directed the fire of the remaining tank destroyer, silencing two enemy machine guns. Returning to his platoon, First Lieutenant Murphy quickly reorganized his men and led them in the assault, taking a leading part in flushing the enemy from their positions. The gallant and courageous actions displayed by First Lieutenant Murphy were instrumental in the success of the seizure of the town and the capture of one hundred and thirty of the enemy, with a minimum of casualties. His conspicuous gallantry was an inspiration to his men and was in keeping with the highest standards of the United States Armed Forces.