Citation:

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Michael F. Murray, Jr. (356406), Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a Rifle Platoon Leader, serving with Company C, First Battalion, Twenty-Fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 3 March 1945. Courageously leading his platoon across difficult terrain to outflank a strongly- entrenched enemy position, Platoon Sergeant Murray spear-headed a hand grenade and rifle assault upon two Japanese pillboxes and succeeded in demolishing one, but at the cost of severe casualties to his platoon from the devastating machine-gun fire. Repeatedly exposing himself to the continued heavy fire while directing the evacuation of his wounded men, and aware of their immediate need for first aid from the corpsman, he went to the assistance of a stricken man who was lying helpless directly in front of the hostile strongpoint, after leaving instructions that no attempt to rescue him should be made if he should fail. Boldly charging the Japanese machine gun, he put it out of action with his deadly fire and, although mortally wounded himself in this gallant assault, made possible the safe evacuation of his wounded comrade. Platoon Sergeant Murray's valiant actions, inspiring leadership and concern for the safety of his fellow Marines were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 25424 (November 6, 1945)

Murray, Michael F, Jr., PltSgt