Murph: The Protector

This film tells the story of a true American Hero. Everyone should watch this film even the anti-military Hollywood types. I plan to show this film to both my children and grandchildren in hopes that they will learn the meaning of true sacrifice and brotherhood. Those who have never served in the military and have never experienced the bond that exists between those who depend on the man or woman beside them for survival will see how LT Michael Murphy, USN disregarded his own personal safety for the well-being of his comrades. There is much to be learned from watching and learning how the values and virtues instilled in him from a young child shaped the man and leader who would eventually go on to be awarded the Medal of Honor.

This is a fascinating piece about Michael Patrick Murphy, a United States Navy SEAL who won the Medal of Honor for his bravery during the war in Afghanistan. We learn about his early life in high school, his training as a lifeguard, and how he acquired the soubriquet "The Protector" when he protected a special needs child who was being shoved into a cupboard by a group of bullies. We learn about his military career; his love of what he did; and his bravery during Operation Red Wings, a failed counter- insurgent mission in Afghanistan, where Murphy was shot down in June 2005. Family and friends contribute to this heartfelt profile of an incredibly brave man whose loyalty to his country was unquestioned, and devotion to duty could not be denied. Yet I was left feeling strangely dissatisfied, wondering whether the mission in Afghanistan has - and still has - any point to it. If young men like Murphy cannot survive - even though they have so much to offer - then what price any fighting person in any army?

Having followed Michael Murphy for the last several years, I very much looked forward to seeing this movie. Now that I have seen it, I can say it is a movie every American should see. Congratulations to Scott Mactavish for the thoughtful and sensitive way Lt. Murphy, his spirit of commitment, love, and dedication to service came through to where I feel I actually know him. Go see this movie! Take your family, your friends, your students, your neighbors - not a Hollywood movie, but a true story told by Michael's parents, extended family, friends, and colleagues. You'll be glad you did!

I was fortunate enough to see this movie when it was released in theaters. In my opinion, this is a movie that needs to be seen by high school students so they can see what true heroism is. Murph: The Protector is a moving portrayal of one man's sacrifice to save his team and his selfless dedication to his country. From the interviews with friends and family, one gains a sense of the kind of man Michael Murphy was. I dragged my daughter to see this and by the end of the movie, she was thanking me for having made her go. She doesn't cry much in movies, but this movie made her cry. I feel honored to have been privileged to attend the commissioning ceremony for the destroyer named after him. A true hero. I am eagerly awaiting the release of the DVD.

To all that have written a low review, you apparently have not seen the film or do not know what it represents. Michael Murphy was a Shipmate and Brother of mine who unselfishly gave his own life so that others may live. He was awarded the Medal of Honor the highest award in the Armed Forces that anyone can receive for his bravery that day in the mountains of Afghanistan. I understand that there are people out there that oppose war and all that fight in it, but without us on the battlefield we would not be free Americans and be able to voice our opinions so freely. So every time you see someone in uniform or a veteran you should feel proud to be in their presence, and know they laid their life on the line so that you may have the freedom that you can say or write anything you choose without punishment.