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, Maj 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, Maj Murphy enlisted in June 1986 and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1991. A trained Army Ranger and jumpmaster, he later served as a signal officer, responsible for ensuring soldiers and commanders can communicate securely and reliably, in Italy. Although his assignment was relatively protected, Maj Murphy often volunteered to assist operations at forward bases.

Maj 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.”

Maj Murphy is survived by his wife Barclay and three children.