Neil S. Murphy

T/Sgt. Neil S. Murphy, Ret. USAF, 84, was called to serve on staff of the Supreme Commander on Friday, Oct. 29, 2010.He was born August 2, 1926 in Chicago, Illinois to Melinda Kujath-Gustafason and Samuel Murphy. He attended Tilden High School in Chicago.He leaves behind his beloved wife of 58 years, Sasha (Florence) Murphy and three children, Maria Murphy, Arleen (Tom) Sandrick, Nelson (Marla) and three granddaughters, Megan (Phil) Targun, Mary Sandrick and Madeline Strange as well as many nieces, nephews, sister-in-law Marie and brother, Leo (Gloria).Murph served his country faithfully and honorably for 22 years. He started his military life as an MP in the Army Air Corp in January 1944, then later as a helicopter crew chief and as a Tech. Sgt. He served in Okinawa during WWII and in the Vietnam War, and was based in Pleiku and Da Nang. During his military career Murph was awarded the Bronze Star and Sikorsky Winged “S” Air Rescue Award for his service in Vietnam. He served overseas in the Philippine Islands, Japan, Okinawa, three tours in Germany and in Vietnam. He received the Bronze Star Medal for meritorious service while exposed to danger from hostile forces. He was also awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Air Force Good Conduct Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, Occupation Medal (Germany) (Japan), Medal for Humane Action, National Defense Service Medal with one Bronze Service Star, Vietnam Service Medal with one Bronze Service Star, Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon with four Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, Philippine Liberation Ribbon and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.He retired in December 1977 and returned to Chicago. Murph began his second career as an Ironworker in Chicago Local 63. Murph was a member of the silent, but greatest generation. Many did not know of his achievements. His family now takes justifiable pride in his devotion to duty, country and family. Visitation will be on Tuesday, November 2, 2010 from 3:00-8:00 PM with a prayer service at 3:30 PM at Kish Funeral Home, 10000 Calumet Ave. Munster, IN and Wednesday from 9:30-10:00 AM at the church. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, November 3, 2010 at 10:00 AM at St. Thomas More Church, 8501 Calumet Ave. Munster, IN. Interment will be at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, IL.