Press Release
Washington, April 8, 2014: Guru Gobind Singh Foundation, an active Sikh organization based in Washington, will honor Oak Creek Police Officer Brian Murphy with a Sewa (service) Award.
Murphy, the first officer on the scene during the Aug. 5, 2012 shootings at the Sikh Temple of Wisconsin, will be honored by Sikhs in Washington on Sunday, April 13, 2014 on Vaisakhi Day , an important day for all Sikhs, at Guru Gobind Singh Foundation Gurdwara Sahib, 13814 Travilah Road, Rockville Maryland.
Murphy was struck with 12 bullets during the attack during which six Sikh worshippers were killed and three others were wounded. The gunman, Wade Michael Page, killed himself after he was wounded by a rifle shot from Oak Creek officer.
Murphy, 52, has recovered from his wounds but has no feeling in his right forearm and leg and has limited use of his left thumb because of the injuries he suffered. Murphy is traveling with his family from Wisconsin to Washington to attend the honoring ceremony.
Inder Paul Singh Gadh, Chairman of Guru Gobind Singh Foundation, said, " We as an organization, decided to honor Brian Murphy with a Sewa (service) Award. This is given annually to someone recognizing their spirit of sewa and contributions towards the Sikh community. We are highly grateful to him for his sacrifice and exemplary service to the law and order and providing protection to all citizens of Oak Creek including the members of the Sikh community in Wisconsin. His actions were able to deter much bigger massacre of Sikhs who were still trapped inside the Gurdwara."
Dr. Rajwant Singh, Secretary of Guru Gobind Singh Foundation and Chairman of the Sikh Council on Religion and Education, said, "Sikhs are indebted to Brian Murphy and we are especially touched by his spirit. He reflects the Sikh concept of Chardhi Kala, which is to remain in high and positive spirit even in the face of challenges and tragedies in life. So many youngsters and members of the community are eager to meet him and greet him in Washington. He is an extra-ordinary public protector."
"I try to teach my law enforcement students about Chardi Kala and the faith and divinity of the Sikh faith" , wrote Brian Murphy while accepting to receive the honor from GGSF.
Praising the Sikh community's interaction with him since the tragedy, "On August 5th, I met people who were at their worst moment in life. And I was able to at least help them as best I could. I don't know if it made a tremendous difference to everyone there, but it made a tremendous difference to me because I got involved with a community that has been nothing short of amazing."
He has served in the police department for 22 years and five years with the U.S. Marines. He was also honored by President Obama last year at the White House.