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thedrifter
04-13-07, 07:44 PM
Senate signs on to renaming vet center

Staff and wire reports
Friday, April 13, 2007

The U.S. Senate has passed a measure that calls for naming the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Albuquerque after a Korean War veteran who earned the Medal of Honor and dedicated his career to serving fellow veterans.

Raymond "Jerry" Murphy died last week at the age of 77. He retired in 1997 from a 23-year career as director of veteran services in the Albuquerque VA regional office and went on to volunteer.

In January, New Mexico's two senators had introduced congressional legislation to name the VA center in honor of Murphy. A similar measure is pending in the U.S. House.

Funeral services for Murphy are today in Albuquerque, with burial to follow at the Santa Fe National Cemetery.

Murphy was recognized for his heroic actions while serving in Korea in 1953. As a second lieutenant, he organized and led a mission to rescue wounded Marines pinned down by enemy fire. He was wounded but refused treatment until his fellow Marines were accounted for and treated.

Ellie