Audie Leon Murphy, born into a poor Texas sharecropping family, gained worldwide fame as the most decorated American soldier in World War II (Audie L). Even as a 12-year-old orphan living in Texas, he exhibited impressive marksmanship. However, due to severe poverty, he had to quit school and started working for a nearby farmer who had served in the Marines. The words of this influential farmer left a lasting impact on Murphy: “my biggest mistake I ever made was gettin’ out (of the Military)”.
Audie’s mother supported his decision to leave school and work, stating to the other children, “we’ve just decided who the head of the family is” (Audie). A few years later, during World War II, Audie, who was known for his kind heart, learned of his mother’s passing while he was working. His boss then advised him that he “can do more for the other kids (in your family) with service pay than any other way … think of it as a career…if I’d stayed in, I’d be a General by now!” (Audie L). Despite facing significant challenges and being underage, Audie willingly and eagerly joined the military (Audie).
Audie L, enlisted in the military when he was 18 and achieved remarkable accomplishments as a combat soldier during his three-year service in World War II. His feats are unmatched and it is highly unlikely for any contemporary soldier to match them. The U.S. Army has categorically declared that there will never be another Audie Murphy.
Audie L. received numerous awards and recognition for his exceptional bravery, including the prestigious Medal of Honor, which is the highest military bravery award in the United States. He displayed extraordinary courage and fearlessness, surpassing his duty and risking his life. Along with the Medal of Honor, he was honored with several valor decorations in his country, some of which were awarded multiple times. Additionally, France and Belgium acknowledged his remarkable bravery by bestowing upon him a total of 5 decorations.
Credited with killing over 240 enemy soldiers, while also wounding and capturing many others, Audie became a legend within the 3rd Infantry Division. He began his military career as an Army Private, quickly rising to the rank of Staff Sergeant. Audie received a “battlefield” commission as a 2nd Lieutenant, survived being wounded three times, fought in 9 major campaigns across the European Theater, and ultimately survived the war (Audie). On September 21, 1945, he was released from active duty in the Army and placed into inactive status (Audie L). Audie is often compared to Sergeant York, a highly popular World War I hero (Audie).
Audie, who is now recognized as having Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome (PTS), suffered from insomnia and depression (Audie). In 1971, at the age of 46, Audie tragically perished in an airplane accident. He remains an extraordinary figure in modern America, celebrated for his significant contributions to both military history and popular culture (Audie L).
While not all enlisted men and women embody heroism, gallantry, chivalric duty, great courage, valor, and bravery, there are those who wholeheartedly commit themselves and embrace different opportunities, promotions, and experiences – truly demonstrating heroism. Unfortunately, many of these heroes have passed away, making it difficult to find positive role models amidst the prevailing negative influences that currently surround us.
Audie Murphy, an exemplary hero, demonstrated tremendous bravery, courage, and chivalry. His heroism was evident when he boldly stood on a potentially explosive tank, refusing medical assistance while singlehandedly vanquishing an entire opposing infantry. Prioritizing his troops’ safety, he directed them to take cover in the nearby woods, leaving them in awe as Audie defeated the entire infantry alone.
Audie exhibited extraordinary bravery and selflessness, always going above and beyond what was expected of him. His heroic acts were not prompted by anyone; it was simply his inherent nature. Audie Murphy truly epitomized the concept of exceeding the call of duty. No one had to request his assistance, as he willingly and instinctively took action. In fact, Audie Murphy could rightfully be hailed as the most remarkable hero of the 21st century.
Bibliography
- “Audie Leon Murphy.” Audie Murphy Research Foundation. 8 Jan 2001. http://www. audiemurphy.com/biograph.htm.
- “Audie Murphy.” Brian Taylor War Webspace. 8 Jan 2001 http://www.briantaylor .com/AudieMurphy.htm.
