Foil: 6 Panel: Distinguished Flying Cross Society Column: 4 Line: 6

Wall of Honor Level:
Air and Space Friend

Honored by:

?»?Joseph R. Murphy,
United States Air Force
1953-1980

Senior Master Sergeant Joseph R. Murphy retired as the Munitions Superintendent for the
A-10 aircraft, Armament Systems Release Section, 354th Equipment Maintenance Squadron, 354th Tactical Fighter Wing from Myrtle Beach Air Force Base, South Carolina.

SMSgt Murphy distinguished himself by extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an AC-130 Gunship Aerial Gunner over Southeast Asia on 16 May 1973. On that date, while on an armed reconnaissance mission over heavily defended hostile supply routes, his actions led to the damage or destruction of nine hostile supply vessels and the ignition of seven secondary fires and explosions. In the face of constant threat of antiaircraft artillery fire, he succeeded in destroying large amounts of supplies and munitions destined for use against friendly forces. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Murphy reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

As a result of this mission and his actions Sergeant Murphy was awarded with the Distinguished Flying Cross.

During his Air Force Military service SMSgt earned several award including but not limited to ; the Vietnam Service Medal with six Device; Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross and Device with 1st Device; Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal; Meritorious Service Medal with one Oak Leave Cluster; Air Medal with 5th Device; Air Force Presidential Unit Citation; and the Air Force Outstanding Unit award.