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2nd Lt. Leonard P. Murray
722nd Squadron
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Leonard P. Murray, 84, of Erin Avenue, died Thursday, Jan. 3, 2008, at his home.
He was born Jan. 29, 1923, in Plattsburgh, the son of Mabel (Bourdeau) and Bernard Murray.
Leonard graduated from St. John's Academy in 1940. He then married June K. Luck on June 12, 1946, in St. Alexander's Church in Morrisonville. They were married 45 years until her death in 1992.
Mr. Murray was a veteran of World War II, the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam War. He enlisted as an air cadet in July 1942, and as a bomber pilot he participated in the air bombing of the Ploesti oil fields. During these missions, Captain Murray was shot down and held in Bulgaria as a prisoner of war until his release in September 1944.
He was discharged from the service in 1945 but returned to active duty in support of the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam War. He was very modest of his contributions to his country, but was a true patriot and earned the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Purple Heart, the Air Medal and numerous other awards for his heroism.
Lieutenant Colonel Murray retired in 1974 after a 35-year career of distinguished service as a pilot, navigator, flight instructor and commander of various units around the world.
After retirement, Leonard and June returned to Plattsburgh in 1975 where they lived on Broadway Road. He was devoted to his family and most recently actively involved in the life of his only great-grandson, Martin Steele-Goodwin. Leonard is survived by his daughter, Kathryn (Murray) Steele and her husband, William of Plattsburgh. He is also survived by his granddaughter, Julie Steele-Goodwin and her husband, Aaron; and his grandson, Matthew Steele; and by numerous nieces and nephews.
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Information courtesy of Cathy Ogle, daughter in law of 2nd Lt. Robert P. Gruber, 722nd Squadron.
Link To Crew Information
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