chapter 3 | to love and serve
army commendation medal The Army Commendation Medal (ARCOM), established by War Department Circular 377, 18 December 1945, is awarded to any member of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving in any capacity in the Army after 6 December 1941, distinguishes himself or herself by heroism, meritorious achievement or meritorious service. Award may be made to a member of the Armed Forces of a friendly foreign nation who, after 1 June 1962, distinguishes himself or herself by an act of heroism, extraordinary achievement, or meritorious service which has been of mutual benefit to a friendly nation and the United States. Awards of the Army Commendation Ribbon and of the Commendation Ribbon with Metal Pendant were redesignated by DA General Orders 10, 31 March 1960, as awards of the Army Commendation Medal, without amendment of orders previously issued.
George M. Murphy, S.J. For meritorious and outstanding service as Chaplain at Valley Forge General Hospital, Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, from December 1944 to 1 February 1946. Chaplain Murphy filled the spiritual needs of the patients and no call on his services went unanswered. Above and beyond his normal duties he has won the friendship of patients and staff alike by his sympathetic understanding of their problems and his congenial personality which was reflected in his daily tasks. Chaplain Murphy exemplified the finest attributes of his profession
35 | the medals and the men
and his contribution to the service reflects great credit upon the Chaplain Corps and the Military Service.
Robert E. Sheridan, S.J. His untiring efforts, cheerfulness, pleasing personality and complete devotion to duty displayed from 10 May 1945 to 21 February 1946 gave comfort and confidence to patients aboard the Hospital Ship Chateau Thierry. A high state of morale was also achieved throughout the voyage.
