James T. Murphy

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Private James T. Murphy, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism on 25 March 1865, while serving with Company L, 1st Connecticut Artillery, in action at Petersburg, Virginia. A piece of artillery having been silenced by the enemy, Private Murphy voluntarily assisted in working the piece, conducting himself throughout the engagement in a gallant and fearless manner.

The Navy Cross is presented to James T. Murphy, Radioman Third Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism on the occasion of the bombing and loss of the U.S.S. Panay. Radioman Third Class Murphy was a member of the crew which courageously operated the machine gun battery against the attacking planes, even though these guns could not bear forward from which direction most of the attacks were made. He remained at his post of duty until the ammunition was expended and he was ordered to abandon ship. His performance of duty on this occasion was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval Service.