Charles I. Murray

Charles Ira Murray (May 4, 1896 – September 24, 1977) was a highly decorated officer of the United States Marine Corps with the rank of brigadier general, who distinguished himself while serving with 6th Marine Regiment during World War I.

Murray later served as deputy commander with the military staff on Guam.

Early career and World War I

Charles I. Murray was born on May 4, 1896, in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, and later attended the Culver Military Academy in Culver, Indiana. Following his graduation in May 1917, he was commissioned a second lieutenant on May 21, then was subsequently sent to the Marine Corps Rifle Range in Winthrop, Maryland for basic training, where he remained until the end of June.

At the beginning of July 1917, Murray was ordered to the Basic School at Marine Barracks Quantico, where he received further officers training. In August of the same year, he was promoted to the rank of first lieutenant and subsequently attached to 79th Company, 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment.

His regiment under Colonel Harry Lee sailed overseas and arrived in France in January 1918. Murray entered the trenches in the Toulouse sector near Verdun in March 1918 and subsequently participated in the Battle of Belleau Wood on June 6. During the night attack near Bouresches, he led his platoon until he was wounded in both arms by enemy machine gun fire. Murray remained with his platoon until he was not able to advance and subsequently refused assistance and walked to the rear alone.

For his gallantry in action, Murray was decorated with the Distinguished Service Cross and later with the Navy Cross. He also received the Purple Heart for his wounds.

He distinguished himself in this capacity and was decorated with a Bronze Star Medal at the end of his tour of duty in June 1945. Murray was subsequently transferred to Okinawa, where he served as deputy commander, U.S. Naval Government under Rear admiral John D. Price until June 1946.