A Second War ‘Italian theatre’ Immediate M.M. group of four awarded to Lance-Corporal J. J. Murphy, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (6979921 L. Cpl. J. J. Murphy. R. Innis. Fus.); 1939-45 Star; Italy Star; War Medal 1939-45, with M.I.D. oak leaf, these last three privately named; mounted as worn, the first with two edge bruises, otherwise good very fine (4) £900-£1,200

M.M. London Gazette 18 October 1945. The original recommendation for an Immediate award states:

‘Fusilier James Joseph Murphy, R. Inniskilling Fusiliers, 38 (Irish) Brigade, 78 Infantry Division, 5 Corps.
During the morning of 21st April 1945 at Canal Crossing MR 214735 Italy Sheet 76.11.SW. After “C” Coy 2/R. Innis. Fus. had been caught in an artillery barrage, Fus Murphy, who was bren gunner in a rifle section had many comrades killed and wounded. He went out into the open under intense shell and mortar fire and brought in a number of the wounded. He never wavered and set a great example to his comrades. When ordered to come back and take up a defensive position on a canal bank, Fusilier Murphy took his bren gun and searched the canal bank knowing well that there were several enemy posts there. He assisted in capturing a spandau position and a complete section of riflemen.
This Fusilier showed tremendous energy, courage, and devotion to duty through an extremely heavy action.’

M.I.D. London Gazette 24 August 1944.