Soldier Honored: Edward J. Murphy

2021-Edward J. Murphy
Dates: Died April 6, 2005
Hometown: Charleston, SC
Branch of Service: Army
Rank: Major

Major Edward J. Murphy, 36, of Charleston, South Carolina was assigned to the Southern European Task Force, Camp Ederle, Italy, where he worked as Signal Officer. On April 6, 2005, Major Murphy was killed alongside 17 others when the CH-47 helicopter he was riding crashed in Ghazni, Afghanistan.

A graduate of the University of South Carolina, Major Murphy was an Airborne Ranger, a Jumpmaster, and a Military Historian. He most notably served in the 82nd Airborne, Ranger Training Brigade, and SETAF. He had also deployed in support of Operation Joint Forge. Major Murphy’s awards and decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Army Commendation Medal with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Achievement Medal with 1 OLC, Humanitarian Service Medal, Overseas Service Medal, NATO Medal, Army Service Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Master Parachutist Badge, and the Ranger Tab. Maj. Murphy also held Italian Jump Wings. At the time of his death, Major Murphy was assigned as the Deputy J-6 for the Southern European Task Force (SETAF), based at Caserma Ederle, Vincenza, Italy.

Major Murphy was more than a Soldier and Signal Officer. He was the dad that coached teams, played Barbies, and loved being a dad. His last email home said “Don’t worry about me. I’m fine and safe. I just miss you and my family very much. I love you more than you could ever know. I cannot begin to tell you how I long to be in the comfort, safety, and protection of your loving arms and our wonderful home.”

 


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