Belgian Croix de Guerre Medal and Ribbon with Palm

On July 19, 1948, the country of Belgium presented to Lieutenant Audie Murphy the Belgian Croix de Guerre 1940 with Palm "for exceptional acts of bravery facing the enemy during (World War) II" (Simpson, page 410).

As an honored guest of France, Lieutenant Murphy, with his press agent and friend David "Spec" McClure, were flown to Paris, France on July 5, 1948 where they remained for two weeks.

During the time, the pair visited significant historical locations and places where Murphy fought. Murphy's presence was part of the annual French Republic's Bastille Day celebration.

On the last day in France, Lieutenant Murphy was honored at an awards presentation in Paris where he received three medals. The Belgian Croix de Guerre 1940 with Palm was the third award presented and was authorized by Belgian government decree 4282.

Before receiving the Belgian medal, Lieutenant Murphy was also awarded France's highest award of valor, the French Legion of Honor, Grade of Chevalier, and its fifth highest award, the French Croix de Guerre with Palm (Simpson, page 410).