Mr. Patrick V. Murphy, JR. is currently a partner at Gerchick-Murphy Associates, a commercial airline-consulting firm based in Washington, D.C. He started this company following his retirement from the United States Department of Transportation in September 1999.
Mr. Murphy graduated from Syracuse University with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, and he was commissioned into the Infantry in 1967 as the Syracuse University Distinguished Military Graduate. Following a brief tour with the 82d Airborne Division, 2LT Murphy was transferred to the 101 Airborne Division already in Vietnam. As a platoon leader, Lieutenant Murphy bravely led his soldiers through numerous battles. On Jun 31, 1968, Lieutenant Murphy was seriously wounded, including the loss of his right leg, while leading his soldiers in combat with the North Vietnamese Army. He was awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his valorous actions during that battle. After two years of rehabilitation in Washington D.C., Captain Murphy was medically retired from the Army. In 1971, Mr. Murphy graduated from American University with a Master of Business Administration. He began working at the Civil Aeronautics Board, and in 1985 transferred to the U.S. Department of Transportation where he rose to the position of Deputy Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs.
Mr. Murphy’s military decorations include the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Bronze Star with “V” device, the Purple Heart, various Campaign and Service Medals, the Ranger Tab, and the Parachutist Badge. As a Secretary for the Department of Transportation, Mr. Murphy received the Meritorious Executive Award from Presidents Bush and Clinton in addition to the Distinguished Executive Award from President Clinton.
Mr. Murphy is married to the former Jean Hunt an Army Nurse whom he met during treatment at Walter Reed Medical Center. Together they have three children.