Mr. Joseph M. Murphy received The Major General John H. Russell Leadership Award

Mr. Joseph M. Murphy, Guest of Honor and recipient of the Major General John H. Russell Leadership Award

On October 18, 2018 Mr. Joseph M. Murphy, a Founding Director of Country Bank New York and a United States Marine, received the Marine Corps University Foundation’s prestigious Major General John H. Russell Leadership Award. Mr. Murphy was chosen for the top distinction in recognition of his exemplary service and dedication to the community.

Among numerous colleagues, family and friends, Mr. Joseph Murphy, Chairman of Country Bank, was awarded the crystal trophy for his dedication to the community, country, and Corps., Mr. Murphy introduced us to a Chosin Reservoir survivor, a Vietnam Veteran and a Veteran from the Gulf War and recognized the students from MCWAR who were in attendance. Mr. Murphy spoke from the heart and demonstrated his gratitude to those who have influenced his career and life with a finger print of honor, sacrifice, and bravery.

The Russell Leadership Award honored Mr. Murphy’s lifelong commitment to excellence in leadership and character which reflects the history, traditions, and ethos of the Marine Corps.  Mr. Murphy  received this award at the Major General John H. Russell Luncheon  at The Union League Club in New York City.

Mr. Murphy served on the Board of the Marine Corps University Foundation and as Treasurer Emeritus received the Leonard F. Chapman medal for his service.

Mr. Murphy and his wife, JoAnn, reside in Eastchester, New York.  They have five children; Patricia, Joseph Jr., Christopher (deceased), Carolyn and Mary and are blessed with eight grandchildren.

Major General John H. Russell, USMC, was the 16th Commandant of the Marine Corps.

The Major General John H. Russell Leadership Award established in his honor by the Marine Corps University Foundation, is presented annually at a luncheon to a distinguished American whose commitment to personal and professional excellence embodies those qualities of leadership and character uniquely associated with the United States Marine Corps.

It was a very touching luncheon that shared many stories and points of view. The Luncheon was a resounding success, and we thank all who were able to attend. Special thanks also to our Military Guest of Honor, Lieutenant General Michael Dana, USMC.

Photos from this amazing event can be found here.

See the list of all Major General John H. Russell Leadership Award Past Recipients.

For more information about The Marine Corps University Foundation and The Major General John H. Russell Leadership Award, please call Mattrice Williamson at (703) 640-6835 or by email .

The Marine Corps University Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that relies on tax deductible gifts, is the only Marine Corps charity solely dedicated to supporting the Professional Military Education (PME) of Officer and Enlisted Marines at the Marine Corps University and throughout the Operating Forces. Special events, such as the Major General John H. Russell Leadership Award Luncheon provide funding that supports Marine Leaders and their Professional Military Education worldwide.  The University leadership’s vision has been twofold – to prepare Marines at all levels to address complex security challenges in a rapidly transforming world through an unparalleled education in security and warfighting studies, and to groom the next generation of decision makers within the Marine Corps, government, and the private sector, equipping them with the critical thinking skills that will enable them to achieve success in any number of career paths. The Foundation relies on tax-exempt contributions from our Major General John H. Russell Leadership Award Luncheon, and those who support Marine Corps causes, including Corporate Members, Marine friends, former Marines helping Marines and donations in memory or in honor of someone special. We are grateful for your tax-deductible donation to support the Professional Military Education of active duty and reserve Marines. Semper Fi!