Audie leon murphy june 20, 1924 may 28, 1971 born in kingston, texas, died near this site in an airplane crash. america's most decorated veteran of world war ii. he served in the european theatre - 15th infantry regiment - 3rd infantry division and earned 24 decorations, including the medal of honor, legion of merit, distinguished service cross and three purple hearts. he was survived by his wife, pamela, and two sons, terry michael and james shannon.