The Story of Audie Murphy

By: Adith Bondugula

Every year on November 11th countless Americans across the country pause to pay their respects to the many that have been in uniform and whose bravery and sacrifices helped make the USA we see today. One such person is especially known for his actions on the battlefield and is one of the most decorated soldiers in U.S. history. His name is Audie Murphy and he won the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions and selfless morals. 

After Japan attacked Hawaii at Pearl Harbor, Audie Murphy wanted to join the military and serve the country. He tried to join the Marines at only 16 years old but did not meet the physical requirements required since he was too short. Despite this, he decided to join the Army due to his love for the country and determination to serve. While serving in the army, Murphy fought in WWII, fighting in areas such as North Africa, Italy, and France.

Near the village of Holtzwihr in France in January 1945, the German forces struck Murphy’s unit using tanks and armed infantry. Any regular soldier would run away in panic with such a sudden attack, but instead Murphy decided to stay due to his exceptional courage. Even with injuries like a wound on his leg, Murphy stopped the German advance for about an hour. By using the machine gun he found at the top of an abandoned tank, he killed many enemy soldiers and was able to stall time for his fellow comrades. Even through extreme pain he persisted and never decided to give up on his goal of stopping the enemy. His selfless actions caused a huge shift on the outcome of the battle and saved countless American soldiers. His actions even received major recognition when he was awarded the Medal of Honor, one of the most prestigious awards in the world.

After the war, Murphy returned home and decided to try and have a career centered around Hollywood. Although he looked fine in movies, Murphy was struggling with post traumatic stress from the intense memories he had from his heroic day in Holtzwhir, France. Murphy’s incredible story shows that the battle for many veterans doesn't just end when the war finishes, but instead continues for many years even after coming home. 

Every Veterans Day, take a couple moments to remember Audie Murphy and the sacrifices he made for the country. His bravery, courage, and heroism inspires many even today and shows that behind every person in a uniform there is a human being that feels hope, fright, loss, and warmth.