"It is with great sadness that I learned of the sudden passing of Mr. Murphy, who was in Ottawa to participate in the ceremonies to bring home Canada’s Unknown Soldier.

As a proud Canadian and veteran of the Canadian Forces, Mr. Murphy dedicated much of his time over the last 30 years to promoting and defending the interests of his comrades. He was unfailing in his attachment to the Legion and to the memory of those who gave their lives to defend peace, justice and democracy on foreign shores. Merchant Navy veterans will certainly remember him for his key role in negotiating compensation for their war time service. But each of us owes him a great deal of gratitude for his hard work and determination in ensuring the return to Canada of our country’s Unknown Soldier.

On behalf of all Canadians, Aline and I wish to express our sincere condolences to his wife, Alice, as well as to their children. I hope that they can find some small comfort in the knowledge that his heritage will live forever in the heart of a grateful nation."