Audie Murphy’s valor and tenacity served as an inspiration, and he became a celebrated war hero in America. Murphy received over 33 awards and decorations, including the Distinguished Service Cross, two Silver Star Medals and two Bronze Star Medals. He is known as the most highly decorated soldier in American history.
As this year marks the 80th anniversary of Audie Murphy’s incredible achievements, it is essential to look back on the journey of a man who not only became a symbol of bravery but also an inspiration for many.
Born on June 20, 1925, in Kingston, Texas, Murphy was born on a sharecropper farm. Susan Lanning, director of the Audie Murphy American Cotton Museum, said, “Audie Murphy was very poor growing up, he was the seventh child of 12. He would often go hunting after school with a slingshot to hunt squirrels to put food on the dinner table. After his father had left the family, his mother had passed away, causing Audie Murphy to drop out of school after completing the fifth grade [to] work on the farm full-time.” These challenges shaped his character and taught him values of resiliency and determination at a young age.
At the age of 15, Murphy attempted to enlist in the military. According to The Association of the United States Army, “After being refused enlistment in both the marines and the paratroopers for being too small… he enlisted in the U.S. Army a few days after his 18th birthday.”
Murphy was assigned to the 15th Infantry Regiment of the 3rd Infantry Division, where he quickly distinguished himself on the battlefield.
Lanning said: “In Holtzwihr, Audie Murphy held off the Germans while his men retreated. Audie would jump on a tank to continue fighting… He would be fighting for almost 45 minutes and did such a good job, the Germans had retreated – which is why he received the Medal of Honor.”
His accomplishments not only emphasized his heroism but also showcased his deep commitment to his fellow soldiers. Lanning said: “When he became a lieutenant and received a battlefield commission, they moved him to a different company, but he refused to leave the company – half of his men died and he wanted to stay with them. Ultimately, they let him stay, which was unusual.”
After the war, Murphy started an acting career, he acted in 44 films, starring in 39 of them. According to the AUSA, His best-known film is “To Hell and Back,” which is based on his autobiography of the same name. Audie Murphy was voted the most popular Western actor in America in 1955 by motion pictures exhibitors.
Despite his fame, Murphy remained humble. He often advocated for veteran rights and brought attention to the struggles of veterans that served.
Murphy’s bravery, resiliency and dedication to his country serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve in the armed forces.
