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WHEREAS, On May 31, 1971, Audie Murphy met an untimely death in an aircraft accident; and

WHEREAS, It is ironic that his death occurred on Memorial Day, a day when America honors its fallen combat heroes; and

WHEREAS, Audie Murphy, the most decorated serviceman in the history of the military of the United States of America was a patriot in the true sense of the word, believing in and living the ideal that freedom and democracy are worth dying for; and

WHEREAS, On July 20, 1968, Audie Murphy delivered the dedicatory address at dedication ceremonies of the Alabama War Memorial and Hall of Honor honoring Alabama fallens sons, and at that time, in referring to this memorial, said: "May it be an inspiration for other states to follow . . . that one day there will be fifty war memorials"; and

WHEREAS, On other visits to Alabama, Audie Murphy expressed his affection for the State of Alabama saying "On my one-time visit, I fell in love with this State, and its people have shown me great southern hospitality."; and

WHEREAS, Audie Murphy had consented to participate in the Spirit of America Fourth of July celebration in Decatur, Alabama, to help revitalize the spirit of patriotism in Alabamians, and although his body is enshrined in Arlington, we know his spirit will be with us; and

WHEREAS, Audie Murphy's bravery, courage, devotion to and love of country and concern for his fellowman have been and will continue to be an example for all Americans to follow both in time of war and in time of peace; and

WHEREAS, The Legislature of Alabama wishes to express it profound sadness and sense of loss upon the death of Audie Murphy;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF ALABAMA BOTH HOUSES THEREOF CONCURRING, That the death of Audie Murphy has sadden the hearts of Alabamians, and that America has lost one of her true patriots.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED RESOLVED, That the Legislature requests that a place of honor be reserved for Audie Murphy in the Hall of Honor at American Legion Headquarters in Montgomery, with a copy of this resolution to be displayed there to show the world Alabama claims him as her own.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED RESOLVED, That the Legislature hereby requests that certain of his personal articles be collected by the Alabama Department of Archives and History there to be kept until duly dedicated to the State of Alabama.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be sent to his widow and two children who reside at 1201 Toluca Road, North Hollywood, California; the President of the United States; and to both Houses of the Congress of the United States.

Approved June 24, 1971
Time: 11:45 A.M.