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Rep. Charlie Dent

Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 90th birthday of an American hero, my constituent, Mr. James W. Murdy.

James Murdy wanted to serve his country in the United States military and learn a trade. He joined the Navy in 1940 and soon thereafter served as an electrician aboard the USS Helena, a St. Louis-class light cruiser stationed at Pearl Harbor. On December 7, 1941, shortly after James began serving on the Helena, the ship was hit by a torpedo dropped by a lone Japanese torpedo plane. Thankfully, James Murdy survived the attack that killed 20 of his fellow sailors.

James Murdy then attended the Naval Mine Warfare School and worked as a minesweeper for the next 3 years. He was honorably discharged from the Navy in 1946 after achieving the rank of chief electrician's mate, the highest rank he could obtain as an enlisted man.

Shortly after being discharged from the Navy, James wed Mary Robb, with whom he had three children; James Murdy, Rosemary Murdy-Haber, and Patricia Murdy-Cressman. He still lives in Allentown, Pennsylvania and loves rebuilding or constructing items from scratch and being called upon to speak about his experiences at Pearl Harbor. He is an ardent fan of the Philadelphia Phillies and Eagles and loves spending time with his family, including his granddaughter and step-granddaughter.

Mr. Murdy served our county with valor and distinction, and we should honor his service, his dedication, and his allegiance to our great Nation. It is my honor to join with his many friends and family in celebrating the 90th birthday of this wonderful man.