Celeste in Hunt County, Texas — The American South (West South Central)
Audie Murphy
Photographed By Jesse Nelsen, January 2, 2021
1. Audie Murphy Marker
Most decorated soldier in World War II. Born 4.5 miles south, June 20, 1924, sixth of nine children of tenant farmers Emmett and Josie Killian Murphy. Living on various farms, Audie Murphy went to school through the 8th grade in Celeste -- considered the family's home town. He had to quit school to help support the family, acquiring marksmanship skills by hunting to provide food. On his 18th birthday, after being rejected by the Marines because of his size (5 feet, 7 inches; 130 pounds), he enlisted in the Army while working in Greenville.
For unusual courage and bravery, he received 24 decorations, including the U. S. Congressional Medal of Honor; the French Legion of Honor, Chevalier: the Distinguished Service Cross; and a Silver Star.
After the war he became a successful actor, his most prominent role portraying himself in the film "To Hell and Back," his war career autobiography.
Following his untimely death in a plane crash in Virginia, May 28, 1971, and burial in Arlington National Cemetery, the U.S. Congress paid him a final tribute, dedicating a new veterans' hospital in San Antonio to the memory of this American hero.
Survived by widow Pamela, sons Terry and James.
Erected 1973 by State Historical Survey Committee. (Marker Number 7820.)
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Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Patriots & Patriotism • War, World II. A significant historical date for this entry is May 28, 1971.
Location. 33° 17.454′ N, 96° 11.48′ W. Marker is in Celeste, Texas, in Hunt County. Marker is at the intersection of Highway 69 and Kingston Street, on the left when traveling north on Highway 69. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Celeste TX 75423, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 6 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Birthplace of Mack Harrell (approx. 0.6 miles away); Kingston Baptist Church (approx. 3 miles away); Harrell Camp Ground (approx. 3.4 miles away); Birthplace of Audie Murphy (approx. 4.2 miles away); White Rock Community (approx. 4˝ miles away); White Rock Methodist Church (approx. 4˝ miles away); White Rock Baptist Church (approx. 4˝ miles away); Old National Road Crossing (approx. 6 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Celeste.
Photographed By Jesse Nelsen, January 2, 2021
2. Audie Murphy Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on January 4, 2021. It was originally submitted on January 2, 2021, by Jesse Nelsen of Farmersville, Texas. This page has been viewed 579 times since then and 102 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on January 2, 2021, by Jesse Nelsen of Farmersville, Texas. • J. Makali Bruton was the editor who published this page.
